7 Simple Rules to Good Business Cards

Everyday thousands of business cards are exchanged at meetings, conventions, parties, networking events, interviews, taverns, you name it. Business cards can serve many functions, but ultimately they act as a first impression (and the lasting impression) you get to make. It’s often the first point of contact with new clients.

This is your first chance to win them over and stand out in the crowd. It’s also typically one of the only promotional or marketing tool they will take away with them after your first meeting. This could be a planned meeting or a chance crossing on the sidewalk, no matter where it is, this is a great opportunity not to be missed.

 Over the past 400 years or so business cards have evolved from “visiting cards” reserved for the most elite clients in Europe, to the “5,000 full-color cards, designed, printed and delivered in 24 hours for $4.95” internet specials we see today. The price might sound right…but what will it really cost you?

Here are 7 simple rules to help guide you.

1. Make it simple. Your business card is going to be small. Don’t try to cram every clever idea you’ve ever had on this one item.
2. Make it clear. The information should be easy to read.
3. Make it yours. Whatever it is, it should be unique to you.
4. Make it work. The card should do something for you. It should help sell your service, your product or whatever it is you offer.
5. Make it for real. Printing them on your laser printer at home and trimming with scissors will not do the trick.
6. Make it! Don’t be left with that silly look on your face when someone says to you “…do you have a card?” 
7. Make it travel. The perfect business card does nothing sitting in your pocket or collecting dust on your office desk. Get out there!.

You’ll find business cards come in all shapes and sizes – most printed on paper, others laser die-cut into metal or maybe ink stamped on a rubberband. Just make sure whatever you create, it is appropriate for you and your business. Maybe as a fashion designer you'd like to consider some hand stitching? Perhaps you're a fitness trainer and you want an extra skinny card. Odd sizes can be a simple way to be unique. There are lots of good ideas and alternative methods for sharing your contact information, so don't be afraid to be different. After all, that is why people will hire YOU.

There are those who will argue, with the progression of technology such as iPhones, laptops, texting and web 2.0, "old fashion" business cards are dead. Is your card tired and dusty or fresh and energetic? Nothing beats a well designed, well thought out and appropriate card handed to that new contact.  Just try it, and see what kind of reaction you receive.

When you think about a business card it may seem simple and not very important. Remember, you never get a second chance to make a first impression. You just need see a truly different card and you’ll see what I mean. Cards that stand out belong to those that will too. 

* We’d like to hear your thoughts. Have you seen cards you thought worked well, or did not? What kind of reaction do you get with your card? What kind of reaction are you looking for?