In this era of social media and online networking and online search, you may not see quite as many brochures and leaflets being handed out on a regular basis.  The business card, however,  is still widely used at business networking events and in face-to-face meetings, and they can speak volumes about you and your company.

The following are some tips that will give you the best possible results with your business cards:

Tips for Designing and Printing Your Business Cards

  • Keep your business card simple. Don't use too many fonts or try to put too much information on it. Use an uncomplicated layout and make sure that your main message (your tagline) doesn't get lost in clutter.
  • Even if you can produce your business cards at home or at the office, have your business cards professionally designed and printed. Your business card will be the first impression your prospects receive of your business, so let them convey the most professional one.
  • Make your card easy to read.  Use a high contrast between the background and the type. A light background with dark type is usually easy to read.  Remember, you don't want people to have to struggle seeing your information.
  • Make sure that all the information on your card is printed in a large enough font to be easily readable.  Also, keep the font simple.  Ask your printer about the best and most readable fonts.
  • Avoid using some tired and overused clip art as your business logo. A logo brings credibility and brand awareness, so consider having a logo professionally made for your business.
  • Use all of the card's real estate- the back of the card can hold more information, such as special offers, checklists, schedules, etc.
  • Consider adding a QR Code to make it easy for your prospect to scan your card on their phone and capture your contact information. Check Alta Graphics Mobile Web Site Options to learn how easy it is to do.
  • If you are in a profession where relationship selling is vitally important, it may be a good idea to include your headshot photo on your card (i.e. insurance and real estate agents).
  • Your business card is an important part of your brand or corporate identity strategy. It should look similar to the rest of your communications material (stationary, brochures, letterheads, etc.).
  • Ask your printer's advice about the type of paper stock to use.  Certain stock will give a much sharper, cleaner and more "upscale" look.

Tips for Handing Out Your Business Cards

  • Don't give out your business card too quickly because you may seem pushy or just trying to make a sale. Try to establish a conversation with your prospect first. For example, ask them questions about what they do, who they would like to connect with, and how you might be able to help them.  That will usually prompt them to give you their card. That is the perfect moment to give them yours.
  • Think about how Chinese business people treat their business cards.  They hand out their cards with both hands. This helps give the impression that your card has value.
  • Always give your business card face up.
  • When you receive someone else's business card, don't put it away immediately. Instead, look at it and keep it in your hand while you talk to the person.
  • When giving your card to someone, give 2 or 3, so that your contacts can give them others when it's appropriate.
  • Include a business card with all your snail mail correspondences.
  • Send a business card with any corporate gift that you send.
  • Don't try to give your card in situations where many people are giving them to your prospect. Wait for a moment when you can capture your prospect's attention span.  You could also try sending your business card by mail with a card or note.  That will usually get a person's attention.
  • Don't give away cards that are bent or damaged.
  • Get a cardholder with two pockets.  Use one pocket for your cards and the other one for the cards you receive at an event.

Bottom line: as with any other marketing technique, you want to put some time and effort into how you are presenting yourself with your business card.