Be creative
but avoid being too cute
Pull out all of the business cards that you have collected over the years
and look for some that stand out. If they stand out in your mind, they
have a good chance of standing out in the minds of those that you will
give them to.
One option is to put your photo on your
business card - but there are pros and cons to doing this:
Business cards with photos can be easier
to locate when in a large pile due to the fact that they usually have
more color than the typical business card.
A business card with your photo on it
will help a new contact find you in a meeting or help to differentiate
you in a group of people. If you often make initial contact with someone
by phone or email, sending him or her a business card with your photo on
it before you meet in person is a thoughtful gesture.
Photos add cost, not only in printing
but also in having a good quality photo taken.
Your hairstyle and clothing in your
photo can date you. If you do not make new business cards often, with
updated photos that can be a distinct disadvantage.
Design to
communicate
Your business card should communicate the essential information clearly
and quickly. Remember, your name and numbers are the most important things
on a business card.
Whether you are creating business cards for
the first time or updating your existing card to improve your image, your
business card is the handshake you leave behind. Be sure it reflects your
professionalism, your skills and your ability to provide the product or
service your prospects require.
Your business card is
your initial introduction to potential clients and customers. If designed
and presented correctly, your business cards can be a powerful tool to
show clients you are professional and customer oriented. Business cards
traditionally come in a standard 2 x 3-1/2 size and are commonly printed
on 100# or 12pt-14pt card stock. Many printers have the ability to print
full color custom graphics and pictures on the front and back of your
business cards and business post cards. Research has shown that business
cards printed in four colors (full color) will attract more attention than
one printed in black & white (two color).
Your business cards should reflect your
professionalism and skills. It is what people will use to remember you
and contact you. Unfortunately, business cards are small, making it tough
to design a card that makes an impact. So remember to create your
business cards in a way that utilizes color. Make business cards stand
out from the rest so you won't be forgotten.
Normal Specs
Many printers have the ability to print full
color custom graphics and pictures on the front and back of your cards.
You can even create and design your card right online. Your business card
is your introduction to potential clients and customers. Make a lasting
impression on them with your custom printed full color business cards.
Important Information
Business cards generally consist of a single
card stock sheet with an individual's contact information, including name,
company name, and company address, phone, fax, email, and website
address. If you need to include a great deal of information, use the back
side of the card as well.
Size, Paper Stock, and Color
Most business cards are printed on 100-lb. glossy, professional white or
off-white stock. This is generally the least expensive option. Many
business choose to use specialty stocks to give their business cards extra
flair.
Choose your stock carefully. The stock you choose can say as much about
you and your company as the words the business card contains. You can
choose a vivid, eye-catching color, a subtle textured stock, or stock with
high recycled content, among others. Each type of paper makes a statement
about you and your company.
Over the last several years - full color has become much less expensive.
Since the vast majority of business cards are printed in black ink on
white card stock, adding color is a very simple way to make your business
cards stand out.
Use heavy
stock
The weight of your business card leaves an
important impression with your contacts. A heavier business card will make
a better impression. Paper can be measured in weight or thickness.
100#text is measured in weight. 14pt is measured in thickness. It can be
difficult to differentiate between the two unless you know both weight and
thickness. The size paper comes from the mill is called "parent" or
"basis" size and it differs with different kinds of paper. That is why
"80#cover" is heavier than "100#text." The point system on the other hand,
measures paper thickness, not weight and is often used with coated papers.
Make sure you talk to the printer about the type of paper they print your
business cards on.
