Build & brighten your business cards
I’ve been working for a company that sells customized and templated
business cards for years. I find it ridiculous how people will cut
corners everywhere in their business in order to save a dollar or two.
I’m not saying that’s a bad thing, but if that means getting horrible
looking business cards done, well then I think they may have a problem
recognizing priorities.
Lets look at why business cards are important: basically it defines you and your business in a nutshell. The 2x3.5 inch piece of cardstock is advertisement that can be a hit or miss for a potential client.
Here’s a list of suggestions that can help you choose the right look for your future business card purchase. I’ve come across thousands of business cards, and the ones that stood out the most where the ones that included most of these features:
#1 Use Colour:
The human eye is drawn to colour that stands out, and potential clients are drawn to business that stand out too, so, stand out! Don’t be afraid to use colour! It really is incredible the colour quality that is today’s standards. Coloured business cards may be a little pricey compared to B&W, but it’s worth it in the long run – if it helps attract attention.
#2 Don’t use a template
Templates are nice to get an idea, but you should still be a little original. If a potential client receives several business cards from different companies in the same industry most of them using the same templated design, who will they call? Granted – they probably won’t base their investment on the look of a business card, but they might start researching the company that looks the most professional and non-generic. I’ve dealt with so many customers who go with the most basic templated design; they don’t want to have to think too much about it. Not only does it say boring, it says cheap - like the price you paid for it.
#3 Get your own logo
I’ve seen plenty of brand new businesses do this: search through word, find a fancy looking font, type out their company name using this font… that’s it. This will be the representation of their future – easy, cheap, no effort. If you think you can start a business with the same practices well then you’ll end up in the category of 95% of small businesses that fail. I’m not saying you need a logo to be a successful business (if only it were that easy…) but there should be a little effort into choosing the design that will represent your company. Even if you decide to go with a type of font as your logo, you can still get you own font designed. Remember, people easily associate logos with their companies. Everyone knows what company the golden arches logo belongs to. Ideally, you would like the same association with your company and it’s logo. And please, don’t steal an image that wasn’t created for the purpose of belonging to your business. If you know what you’re looking for, but can’t produce it yourself, hire a graphic designer. They’re often very creative, and it’s their job to make a logo to your preferences.
#4 Use the other side
It’s almost automatic – when I receive a business card, I instantly flip to the other side. There is always some disappointment when I don’t see anything behind it. Spread out your info and use the other side, or, if you know anyone else who would like to share a business card you can go that route. Just make sure the other business on the card compliments your business (for example: you own a pet grooming service, and your friend offers pet babysitting services). This way you cut on costs on the business cards, as well as offer more options for your potential client who might be in need of that business as well.
#5 Don’t clutter
I can’t stress this anymore. Keep it simple. If you have important info that must be mentioned on the card, use the other side. Try not to put more than 3 phone numbers it confuses people.
#6 Don’t do it yourself
I’ve yet to come across a “do it yourself” kit that makes your cards look professional. Often the paper is too thin, the perforation marks look horrible, and inkjet printouts will lead to fading, or bleeding especially when exposed to moisture. Therefore, stay away from those cheap kits.
That’s basically it – of course these suggestions may differ for each company. If you do hire a graphic designer for a logo, ask them to design a business card as well, and ask for advice. Like every other business purchase, shop around before committing to the first company you find to furnish your cards. Don’t be surprised with the prices – they can go into the hundreds especially if you are getting coloured cards.
One more thing – print a lot. Don’t go for the lowest amount because it’s the cheapest price, and don’t assume you won’t need a lot because you probably won’t be giving out that many anyways. DO give them out to everyone and anyone. You’ll see by the end of your box of business cards, you’ll feel better knowing that your investment made 1000 people have your cards, rather than only 250.
Here are a few sample cards I wanted to comment on the design:
Cards like these bother me. Unless there’s more info on the back, I’m not a fan of vague cards. It’s true I have received cards that have nothing else other than the name of the company. But what good is that? What if I want to get in contact with you? Point is it’s a great design as long as there’s something in the back I can reach you with.
This is a great design. Simple. It’s got all the info it needs and it gets my attention with the black background and the red and white outlines. They also did a little extra and got round corners. That really makes it stand out. Well done.
This one caught my attention. I’m not sure if the cup is actually their logo or if it’s just the background. Either way, they used a really nice picture of a trendy cup under the very simple font of the company name, which makes it stand out. Once again, I hope they provide contact info in the back.
I found these samples on www.printinghut.com. Check out more of their samples if you need any ideas!
Lets look at why business cards are important: basically it defines you and your business in a nutshell. The 2x3.5 inch piece of cardstock is advertisement that can be a hit or miss for a potential client.
Here’s a list of suggestions that can help you choose the right look for your future business card purchase. I’ve come across thousands of business cards, and the ones that stood out the most where the ones that included most of these features:
#1 Use Colour:
The human eye is drawn to colour that stands out, and potential clients are drawn to business that stand out too, so, stand out! Don’t be afraid to use colour! It really is incredible the colour quality that is today’s standards. Coloured business cards may be a little pricey compared to B&W, but it’s worth it in the long run – if it helps attract attention.
#2 Don’t use a template
Templates are nice to get an idea, but you should still be a little original. If a potential client receives several business cards from different companies in the same industry most of them using the same templated design, who will they call? Granted – they probably won’t base their investment on the look of a business card, but they might start researching the company that looks the most professional and non-generic. I’ve dealt with so many customers who go with the most basic templated design; they don’t want to have to think too much about it. Not only does it say boring, it says cheap - like the price you paid for it.
#3 Get your own logo
I’ve seen plenty of brand new businesses do this: search through word, find a fancy looking font, type out their company name using this font… that’s it. This will be the representation of their future – easy, cheap, no effort. If you think you can start a business with the same practices well then you’ll end up in the category of 95% of small businesses that fail. I’m not saying you need a logo to be a successful business (if only it were that easy…) but there should be a little effort into choosing the design that will represent your company. Even if you decide to go with a type of font as your logo, you can still get you own font designed. Remember, people easily associate logos with their companies. Everyone knows what company the golden arches logo belongs to. Ideally, you would like the same association with your company and it’s logo. And please, don’t steal an image that wasn’t created for the purpose of belonging to your business. If you know what you’re looking for, but can’t produce it yourself, hire a graphic designer. They’re often very creative, and it’s their job to make a logo to your preferences.
#4 Use the other side
It’s almost automatic – when I receive a business card, I instantly flip to the other side. There is always some disappointment when I don’t see anything behind it. Spread out your info and use the other side, or, if you know anyone else who would like to share a business card you can go that route. Just make sure the other business on the card compliments your business (for example: you own a pet grooming service, and your friend offers pet babysitting services). This way you cut on costs on the business cards, as well as offer more options for your potential client who might be in need of that business as well.
#5 Don’t clutter
I can’t stress this anymore. Keep it simple. If you have important info that must be mentioned on the card, use the other side. Try not to put more than 3 phone numbers it confuses people.
#6 Don’t do it yourself
I’ve yet to come across a “do it yourself” kit that makes your cards look professional. Often the paper is too thin, the perforation marks look horrible, and inkjet printouts will lead to fading, or bleeding especially when exposed to moisture. Therefore, stay away from those cheap kits.
That’s basically it – of course these suggestions may differ for each company. If you do hire a graphic designer for a logo, ask them to design a business card as well, and ask for advice. Like every other business purchase, shop around before committing to the first company you find to furnish your cards. Don’t be surprised with the prices – they can go into the hundreds especially if you are getting coloured cards.
One more thing – print a lot. Don’t go for the lowest amount because it’s the cheapest price, and don’t assume you won’t need a lot because you probably won’t be giving out that many anyways. DO give them out to everyone and anyone. You’ll see by the end of your box of business cards, you’ll feel better knowing that your investment made 1000 people have your cards, rather than only 250.
Here are a few sample cards I wanted to comment on the design:
Cards like these bother me. Unless there’s more info on the back, I’m not a fan of vague cards. It’s true I have received cards that have nothing else other than the name of the company. But what good is that? What if I want to get in contact with you? Point is it’s a great design as long as there’s something in the back I can reach you with.
This is a great design. Simple. It’s got all the info it needs and it gets my attention with the black background and the red and white outlines. They also did a little extra and got round corners. That really makes it stand out. Well done.
This one caught my attention. I’m not sure if the cup is actually their logo or if it’s just the background. Either way, they used a really nice picture of a trendy cup under the very simple font of the company name, which makes it stand out. Once again, I hope they provide contact info in the back.
I found these samples on www.printinghut.com. Check out more of their samples if you need any ideas!
Trackbacks
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5/30/2007 7:30 AM
Logo Design and Marketing Advice wrote:
I always enjoy attending or participating in trade shows. It makes me feel like I’m part of a community and that I can strike up a conversation with every individual there because I know they share the same interests one way or another. Communication is key at trade shows if you are a representative, so strike up those conversations. During trade shows, potential clients are looking to see what’s out on the market, as well as talk to a representative one on one. Often, the potential clients have ... -
5/30/2007 7:33 AM
Logo Design and Marketing Advice wrote:
I always enjoy attending or participating in trade shows. It makes me feel like I’m part of a community and that I can strike up a conversation with every individual there because I know they share the same interests one way or another. Communication is key at a trade show if you are a representative - so strike up those conversations. Don’t just deliver a pitch. Honestly, when I see reps go on about how their company is great and is the best choice and yada yada I see a ... -
6/14/2007 7:27 AM
Logo Design and Marketing Advice wrote:
Brochures should be a big priority in your company’s development. It becomes the means in which your services/products are identified. There are a few basics you should keep in consideration if you decide to print brochures for your company. Ideally, you’ll want to make one that customers will keep around in case they ever need your company’s services/products. First you should set a budget before anything. Target how many you would need printed, that way you can decide which features are best for you (quality vs. quantity?). ... -
6/28/2007 7:08 PM
Logo Design and Marketing Advice wrote:
When building a rapport with clients or other businesses it is worthwhile to show your appreciation by presenting them a promotional item as a gift. This small gesture may help to provide loyal customers by keeping them aware of your company. Clients may also feel compelled to continue doing business with you since you show awareness to them. After looking through massive lists of possible products you can put your name on, I cam up with a list of 3 (for now) that seem practical and would be appreciated. ... -
7/20/2007 6:38 AM
Black wrote:
In few years we will see a result -
8/1/2007 4:28 AM
Trumanistra blog wrote:
all about Trumanistra and top news
Great article! Welcome to blogging, I hope to read more of your interesting business articles
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