I often say that a business card is a company’s most-used brochure. It’s tiny as brochures go, but it has a very similar purpose – and can even have greater importance. Besides providing your contact details, your business card gives those who receive it an instant impression as to who your company is, what it stands for and its level of professionalism.
Each time I go to a conference, I mentally critique every business card I get. Yes, I’m in marketing and I do those kinds of things, but I’m not alone. Whether consciously aware of it or not, one casts judgment and evaluates a company with every data point available. And at a conference, a business card may be the only data point people get.
As you ponder whether your business card is helping or hurting your company’s growth, consider these four critical questions:
Does your business card enlighten?
Since this may be the only brochure you’re able to distribute to all of your contacts at a meeting or conference, your business card needs to concisely and effectively convey what your company does. If it doesn’t do that, you’ve missed a huge opportunity.
Is the font so small that a person in their 40s, 50s or 60s can’t read it without their glasses?
I find that most graphic designers love small fonts, as they consider them visually pleasing. Don’t let them mislead you into thinking that small fonts are logical for business. The key is to make a business card legible when you need it to be read.
Did an amateur designer create it?
If so, throw it out. It’s likely doing your company’s credibility more harm than good.
Is your business card bland and forgettable?
Then rest assured it may soon be forgotten. This is no time to blend in. In addition to giving your business card a sharp design layout, consider having a striking color coating the back of the card, a colored edge, and/or printing your card on a thick card stock.
Above all, it’s critical to remember that your business card’s appearance is very important. It’s the first impression prospects will get of your business, so don’t miss this opportunity to impress them with a sharp-looking card.
If your business cards or any of your marketing need help, we’d be happy to assist. Just reach out to me at Rosalie.Berg@StrategicVantage.com
By Rosalie Berg, President, Strategic Vantage