Has someone handed you a business card that makes you cringe? The type is miniscule. Outdated information is inked out and corrections penned in.
Kevin Waldvogel, a printing account executive from Milwaukie, Wisc., received a card from a banker who spelled his title, “bnaker.”
I wont
be investing my money in that bnak anytime soon!
Your business card is the take-home impression you leave with prospects and customers. And you want that impression to be classy, professional and informative. When someone looks at your card, they should immediately understand what you do.
Judi Brown, owner of Getting Personal Imprinting in Seattle, says some of her customers insist on printing cards with just a web address. They exclude their phone number and e-mail address, making it nearly impossible for customers to contact them. If customers cant reach you, what’s the point?
Many cards fall victim to clutter. Competing colors, images and line after line of type vie for attention.
Not only that, but people seem determined list multiple degrees and titles after their name. Joe Knapp, owner of SEO Plan Now in the Philippines, says hes not impressed when a small business owner dubs herself “director of international sales.”
Your business card is most effective when it sticks to the facts. Every card must include your company name and logo, your name, your title or role, your e-mail address, your office and/or cell number and your website URL.
Consider including nonessentials such as a branding tagline, your business address and fax number, and your username at your most-used social media channel. Include a professional headshot of yourself if you are a consultant, real estate agent, photographer any trade in which you are the business.
Many people neglect the back of the card a prime piece of real estate you can use to highlight your competitive difference or bullet your core services.
Consider embedding a Quick Response (QR) code on your card as well. People can scan the square bar code with a smart phone and instantly download contact information, view your company’s video tutorial or receive coupons for your products or services.
The way you organize the information on your card determines how favorably your customer perceives you. Your cards color scheme, typefaces and the order in which you list vital statistics must work together to create a positive impression.
Your cards size also matters. Some people assume that oversized cards will make them stand out from the crowd. But off-size cards don’t stack, nor do they fit in wallets or business card holders. Guess where unusually-sized cards end up? In the recycling bin.
To ensure a professional-looking card, hire a graphic designer. When I gave BloggingBistro.com a makeover, my designer coordinated the design of my company’s website, business cards, Facebook page, sales flier and e-newsletter.
I found a local printer with a coupon special on business card printing. My new card looks great, feels great and delivers a memorable brand impression.
I carry a supply of cards in my handbag, briefcase, laptop case, wallet even in my cars glove box. When I offer my cards to people I meet, they usually request extras to pass along to others.
What do I have to gain by handing out my card? Business.
Laura Christianson owns Blogging Bistro (www.bloggingbistro.com), a Snohomish-based company that helps businesses enhance their Internet presence. Contact her at 425-244-4242 or laura@bloggingbistro.com.
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