The Importance Of A Business Card And What A Business Card Says About Your Business

Have you ever met someone and exchanged business cards to realize how terrifying their business cards are? Well as a marketing consultant I found myself in this position too many times. I have seen the cards you can't read because the writing is too small or the background and foreground are similar shades. This forces you look for lighting so you could read the information or you can barely hold the card because the paper is so thin and cheap. It is time to realize that your business card represents your company's image as much as your customer service or services you offer. People fail to understand that and trying to save on cheap business cards will hurt a business in the long run. Just like any other strategies to marketing there is such a thing as business card etiquette.

1. Paper- having a good paper weight for your business cards is a must, whether you choose a standard paper or linen paper. I understand that small businesses have a smaller budget but in 2008 a good quality business card is not that expensive. So, those who buy the $3.99 special online will get exactly what they pay for: nothing. Every well organized business knows the value of a worthy business card.
2. Background and foreground shades- the other day I was trying to read a navy blue business card with black lettering. Well, I gave up because I got annoyed of killing my eyes. You don't want people to have that feeling about your card. The background color of your card should always be at least two shades lighter then the foreground.
3. Information- a business card should at least include your logo and company name, your name (first and last), position, phone number, fax number if possible, address (if you work from home invest in a P.O. Box), e-mail address (optional), a web site (in 2008, a web site is highly recommended and can be very cheap as little as $20 a month with a website builder hosting account), and last but not least something about your company.
4. Unique Decoration- yes, sometimes the standard background you got for free worked better for your budget, at least so you think. By having the same card as others you just become one in a bunch and forgettable. Your card should stand out and make you memorable, so if you opt for a design, a unique design is a must. Your décor should represent your company with your logo's colors, company themes, etc. Also keep in mind that too complicated backgrounds might unable good use of scanning software to import cards into electronic storage.
5. Size- the standard size of a business card is 3 ½"x 2"; stick to it. Like me, some people like to put business cards away in standard business cards albums or holders. Standard size business cards are also better for those who use scanning software to import cards into electronic storage.
6. Blank back- you have two sides on a business cards, which means twice the opportunity to advertise yourself and business so take advantage of it. One side should have all your contact information and the other should have a picture related to your industry or a promotion or anything that will make it more valuable.

Remember the fundamentals of business cards are very important in representing yourself and company. A creative professional business cards will go a long way in creating a positive image of your and business. Your business card is a marketing tool as much as any other. In 2008 a unique designed business card can be done inexpensively and printed inexpensively as well. Don't let a few more dollars send out the wrong message about you and your business.