Do your business cards work for you?

Do your business cards work for you?

Is it something that you're proud of? Does it clearly inform people what your business does? Are they stylish and visually appealing?

I have seen over the years at networking events, meetings, etc so many business cards that people have given to me that just do not work to enhance their business profile or brand. 

Often they have got the cards free from a website that are printed on thin board in the wrong typeface and with no style.

A business card is one of the most cost-effective marketing tools a business can have. A well-designed professional looking business card can effectively promote your business. 

Your business card design must inform people what you do. How often do you look in business card holders with cards that were given to you say 6 months ago and you cannot remember what that person does? 

The design needs to leave the right feel and clearly defines what your business does so you will not be soon be forgotten.

How many times have you seen a business cards when someone puts the title of say “consultant” but with explaining on the card what they do. They may be a medical consultant, a tax consultant or farming consultant. Would you want a farming consultant to see you for a medical issue?

So a few pointers to think about on the design of you business cards:-

1. Use the right colours that are fresh and not dated.
   
   
   
   
   
2. Use a typeface that is clear and not boring, in my opinion Times New Roman is a big no no.
   
   
   
   
   
3. Make sure that you use both sides of the business cards, you are paying for the board so why have a blank back. On the reverse add may be photo images of products or a picture of the outside of you shop or bar. You can add key feature and benefits of what your business, products or services offer. May be add a map and directions to your company. What about adding a calendar on the back then at least it has 365 days of use. If you run a business that makes appointments add an appointment reminder on the back. You can add a discount offer or refer a friend voucher.
   
   
   
   
   
4. If you really want to make an impact go for a folding business card then you can create a mini brochure.

When you are happy with the design have the cards printed on the right board weight, 400 gsm is a great board weight as it feels thick and impressive.

Look at the finish of the cards, gloss laminated or matt laminated. At the moment my favourite finish is luxury matt laminated with a little spot uv varnish, it's like adding shiny highlights that enhance your message.

When you have got you business cards printed then get them out there. Leave them in bars, restaurants, garages, at client receptions etc. Stick them on notice boards. Give out two at a time and ask to forward onto a friend that may be interested in your product or service.

So please remember that your business card is your little secret sales and marketing tool. If you get it right it will help you win more business.