If you thought your business card was little more than a networking tool, think again. Not only does a business card represent your business label, but also yourself.
When designing your card, be conscious of how you wish to be perceived. In some cases, the person contacting may not have met you, or only had a brief meeting with you, so it?s a good idea to use your card to reflect your personality.
If you wish to come across as familiar and personable, your card may decide to have a glossed card with rounded edges or soft paper ? whereas a corporate card would be structurally formatted, with sharp edges and a strong, matt card material.
One of the most important factors when considering your card is its colour. People often assume the colour is trivial, but it accounts for a lot in terms of leaving a lasting impression. Black is sleek and businesslike, while white is efficient and organised. Bright colours, like yellow, green, blue and orange give a warmer, friendlier tone, where red is bold, striking and guaranteed to get noticed in a filing cabinet of envelopes, computer paper and other business cards.
Typography is another area that will affect your overall image and business label. When considering your font, ensure you choose one that is legible and professional, and that mirrors your demeanor. If you?re flamboyant, a slightly handwritten font is fine, so long as it it?s readable and consistent. Many people make the mistake of selecting a typography that is ?cute? or ?different? ? only for it to look confusing or distracting.
Make sure that the font remains consistent on most, if not, the whole card. A business card with four of five different types looks unprofessional. If you have one, you should also feature your business logo for brand advertising and as a stamp of authenticity.
When listing your contact details, make sure you put your name, occupation, direct line, mobile number, email address, website and fax or business address ? but hold back some forms of communication for face-to-face meetings.
Putting all your contact information on your card doesn?t make anybody feel special, but writing on a personal number or email address does. Don?t give out your card to simply anybody, try to make a connection with the person to make an impression ? your card will be a reminder of your meeting.
The paper quality of your card matters. Don?t use thin computer paper or printing paper; a thick, strong card ? matt or gloss ? is preferable. Using stand-out materials (such as metal or acetate) look brilliant, but can?t be easily written on or folded. Keep it simple. It?s only a small piece of card and shouldn?t be overloaded with gimmicks, texts or designs.
The texture and overall look of a business card will create the general perception of your business or person, so aesthetics count as much as the actual information.
After you?ve left a meeting or social event, your entire identity is on that card. So make sure you consider yours carefully to create the perfect lasting impression.
Finally, use your business card to promote yourself. Instead of stating your occupation or profession as ?Journalist?, don?t be afraid to embellish (within reason!). Try ?Music Journalist? or ?Creative Writer? ? it?s your card, so advertise yourself as your talents and capabilities.
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