*This post has been contributed by Beth Jones
Business cards are a basic that all business owners, big and small, should have. They’re an essential for networking – something you should constantly be doing. So carrying cards with you wherever you go is important. Even at the launderette or your child’s school you could meet a potential new customer, so having cards to hand is always a must.
Of course, when it comes to choosing a design, that’s where things can get tricky. Your business cards need to make a good first impression; they need to be simple to read, eye-catching, and also, professional.
To help you select the perfect design, here are a few tips to take note of:
Don’t make them yourself
First things first, no matter how skilled you are, don’t make your business cards yourself. Unless you are a professional, it’s best to leave your card design to the experts. You might be a skilled designer, but that doesn’t mean you know how to create a perfect business card.
For entrepreneurial success, professionalism is key. A card that lacks style, is poorly printed, or hasn’t come out quite right, will make you seem like an amateur. Don’t waste any of your precious startup money creating your own business cards, seek expert help.
Be unique
Want to stand out from your competitors? Choose a design that’s a little different. Instead of going for plain cards, opt for a colored layout. By making your cards different to everyone else’s, you won’t be easily forgotten. (This is especially important for when you are at networking events.)
Pick the perfect size
Contrary to popular belief, business cards don’t come in just one size. While most people opt for credit card sized designs, that’s not the only option. In fact, there are various sizes to choose from.
However, while it’s good to be different, it’s also important to be smart about it. A large design might be eye-catching, but it’s not practical, as it won’t fit in people’s wallets. If you are going to go for a different sized design, go smaller, not larger. There are some fantastic mini business cards out there that are both eye-catching and professional.
Don’t forget your logo
A must for on your cards is, of course, your company’s logo. If you don’t already have one, get one designed. The way that your business will be recognised is by its logo, so having a well-designed one is crucial. This should appear on emails, letterheads, invoices, uniforms, and of course, business cards.
Ensure that all business card designs include your logo, this doesn’t have to be big, it just needs to be visible. For some unique ways to add your logo to your cards, have a browse online for inspiration. Your designer should also be able to help you with this, so don’t stress too much.
There are many things new business owners need, but one of the most important is business cards. These should be specially created by a designer, and should be easy to read, as well as eye-catching.
