Business cards do still have a purpose, but like all marketing, should be targeted to a specific purpose to get the best results.
With the move to everything digital, many predicted that print business cards would be a thing of the past. Some have gotten creative in using only digital cards, exchanging info through apps, or even creating 10 second video ‘business cards’, but others still believe that a physical card has value. I agree with both thoughts, business cards are valuable for providing information about your business, but when targeted and created with a specific purpose in mind.
In COVID times, there is an even greater emphasis on digital: there are digital meetings, less in-person interactions and fewer physical exchange of products, meaning that there are fewer opportunities to hand out business cards.
My belief is that once things return to a new normal, there will be a greater emphasis on the physical and in-person meetings. When we use more of our senses then just sight (as with online meetings and digital business cards), we have greater appreciation and engagement with our environment.
When You Need Business Cards
Foremost, business cards are important to give to customers and potential customers. One of their first impressions of your business is often your business card. It tells them your basic information, but also creates consistency in your brand and can be a way to ‘wow’ them.
The design of your card is important, but even more so is how you print it. As a designer, I notice these things: a thicker business card, textured paper, glossy (spot UV) or other embellishments stand out to me and lets me know that the business takes pride in their name. (When I’m at a place of business that has business cards, I almost always pick one up.) The more a business card creates an experience, the more I remember it – especially when it ties in with the business itself.
Always have just a few business cards handy, as you never know what conversation will start in the middle of the grocery store, in a line etc. I’ve been asked for business cards more often in a casual setting than I’ve ever expected.
When A Digital Business Card is Better
For many business owners, networking means meeting lots of new people, exchanging business cards and then ending up with a box full of business cards you never look at.
No matter the good intentions, most business cards just end up in a box for future sorting. The most efficient method in this setting is to take a photo/use a digital business card scanner to take a copy and add your notes – less space and easier to find in the future!
For networking, where lots of people are coming together to exchange information, a digital business card may be better received as it can be stored in email and on their computer for future use. Proactively sending a digital business card can also help you stand out from the crowd.
For digital business cards, a well-designed business card is still important to the brand and growth of your business.
Business Card Design Inspiration
Looking for business card inspiration? Here are 60 awesome business card designs for inspiration. Notice how they carry the brand style, and even help enhance it. Some even have a talking point that encourages conversation with you.
Your logo is the start of your brand and business, but the business card and website are what help create your visual identity and how others will relate to you.
Whether you need a creative business card, professional one, or just a simple business card, I can help you create the look to suit your brand. Check out some of my business card designs on my portfolio., under ‘Branding’.
What about you?
As a consumer or client, do you use business cards? Do you look for a business’ information? Consider how you use business cards and if you are similar to your ideal customer.
