A business card can say a lot about you and your business – so it’s important to make sure your design connotes everything your brand stands for and stands out from the competition. Not as easy as you’d think when you have just 3.5 x 2 inches to work with! Even in a largely paperless society, the business card remains a firm staple in the business world that shows no signs of disappearing, so not having one could mean you’re missing out on some big marketing opportunities. There’s a lot of factors to consider when designing your business card, and it’s more important than ever to make sure yours leaves a lasting impression.
Design is key
It may sound obvious, but ensuring that your business card is not overloaded with information, your copy is legible, and any images are correctly resized, is key to your business card looking professional (and not like a bad DIY job). First impressions are everything, and your business card is there to represent you and your company, so it’s important to get it right. Our top tip? Aim to keep your entire copy around 5mm from the edges of your business card, and always use a high-resolution image for your logo.
Make sure your info is correct
Proofread, proofread, then proofread again. The worst thing ou can do when it comes to business cards is ordering them and finding a typo in your email address or phone number, and then being left with 500-odd redundant business cards. And as obvious as it may sound - only keep the information your recipient will need on it. Less is more, so including your name, title, number and email address are more than enough. Keep in mind at the point they have your business card in their hand, they should already be well informed about your business and what you do.
Keep it on brand
Including your brand’s logo, signature font or trademark colour palette will help solidify your brand to memory, and consistency is key here. Including these elements on your business card, particularly if they feature on your website or social channels, will create a link between your online presence and the physical world, and will make it easier for your customers to remember you.
Get creative
Making your business card (and therefore you) memorable is crucial in the dog-eat-dog world of business – and what better way to do it, then by having some fun along the way? While the standard business card is a 55x 85mm rectangle, you can also have business cards cut out into different shapes, so you can pick something that might be particularly relevant to your business - check out the great example above of a Financial Security & Investment representative! Another benefit of this is that it also shows you know exactly what your brand values and tone of voice are, portraying your business as established, reputable and trusted.
Add a finishing touch
You can also print with special finishes – including embossing, raised print, different textures or metallic foil. As these will increase the price of your business cards, it’s important to find a happy medium between gimmick and clever, but get it right and we reckon you’ll be receiving that call back any day now.
Still need help? Speak to a graphic designer
Enlisting the help of a graphic designer will make sure all the above points are taken care of for you, and will make sure that everything from your logo to your contact details are clear and crisp, and your overall design is spot on.
Need help designing your business cards, or other print materials? Then get in touch by filling out the online form on our website, or by contacting howdy@printshop.uk.com. And don't forget to follow us on Twitter and Instagram to keep up to date with our services and the latest print news!
