How to make your business
card stand out

Business card savvy

The most effective business card is the one a customer or client keeps coming back to. You want to make sure it is visually appealing and provides all the necessary information they need to reach you. It sounds simple but many people forget one or more of the following tips:

• The design of your card should reflect your personality but also align with the industry you are in, or want to be in. Choose a beautiful image, strong graphic or interesting logo to go with the type so your card stays top of mind.
• A standard-sized business card is 2.5 inches x 3 inches. If you decide to change the size and shape, know that your card will stand out—either positively or negatively.
• Use the highest-quality cardstock you can afford. The difference in price is not significant, and using heavier (80 to 110 pound) stock will improve the look and feel of the card. For a professional look, avoid perforated business cards.
• If you choose another material for the “card,” such as wood, plastic or metal, make sure the finished product is easy to read and the overall look is professional.
• While embossing, foils, coatings, die-cuts and folded cards add visual interest, they also add extra cost. Consider whether the added expense will enhance the overall design.
• Make sure the ink is stable and covers the paper evenly. Do not use inkjet inks since one drop of water could cause the image or type to bleed.
• Choose an easy-to-read font and make sure the point size is not too small. Unless it is part of the design, don’t mix too many styles or fonts. The best card is one that is simple, clean and legible.
• Keep business cards looking sharp by storing them in a business card holder.

One last tip

Make sure you have established a rapport with the person before you hand him your business card. In doing so, you stand a better chance of your business card not ending up in the trash. If you also get his card, you have the opportunity to continue the conversation or follow-up with more information.

What to include on your card

Name and descriptor: Following your name, you may include one or two professional degrees, if they are relevant to your desired position. You may also want to add keywords that describe your experience or the position you are interested in.

Contact information: Consider how you would want someone to contact you, and include that information on the card.

Is a mailing address important to your customers/clients? Do you want to list another telephone number in addition to a mobile number? Does your email address convey a professional image? Do you have a LinkedIn account, website or blog that would direct someone online to more information about you?

The flip side: Think about using the back of the card creatively. Depending on your industry, you might add an image to the back, a bulleted list of your experience or a useful chart to keep them coming back to your card.

Printing Methods

There are myriad printers offering a wide variety of print services. Whether you choose an online printer or a local print shop, the following list may help you decide the best printing method for your business card needs.

Photo courtesy TNP Communications, LLC	Photo courtesy www.garynevittphotography.com
Specialty materials and techniques make your card memorable and less likely to be filed away. Photo courtesy of Fifth Floor Gallery	Letterpress cards have an elegant look and tactile feel. Photo courtesy of slowprint.com	Embossed business card courtesy Engman Architecture