Did you know that business cards are the most used marketing tool by individuals and companies? Yet, oftentimes business cards lack the creativity, eye-catching information, and knowledge of expertise needed to drum up new business. Granted, a basic business card offers only a 3 1/2 by 2 inch surface to get your message across, but I am confident there is a way to create a unique, yet professional, business card that will get you your next client.

There are a few “musts” that will always be found on a business card. This includes your name, title, contact information, company name, logo, and a brief run down explaining what service you offer which is usually found on the back of a business card. These basics, however, can not simply stand alone. There needs to be a clear theme or color scheme that sets your business card apart from the competition. What font should you use? What cardstock should you use? Should you even use card stock or perhaps a different material. This is only the beginning of the questions which will ensue.

The layout of the card is often the most challenging piece of the puzzle. The key is to create a streamlined card including all pertinent information in an engaging way. At the same time, you do not want your card to look too busy or crowded with information which is why you are encouraged to utilize both sides of your card. When in doubt, keep it simple. What do you want to jump out first to the viewer? Do you want your logo to be the centerpiece or your name? These are decisions that must be made in order to continue your process. 

As for the overall look of your card, consistency is key. The same font should be used throughout the card and the color scheme should be pleasing to the eye. 

While creating a unique business card is important in order to stand out, be careful not to over do it. For example, changing the size of your business card to stand out is not the best idea. When a person receives a business card they often put it in their wallet or rolodex. If the business card does not easily fit into the provided slots, more often than not, that person will throw the card away. You want your card to be a value add, not an annoyance. Additionally, the cardstock is important because a card that is too flimsy may not endure and find its way into the garbage.

Whenever you are picking out a design it is good to try and create one that fits or relates to your business in some way. People appreciate this more and are more likely to remember you because of it.

If you want to make sure your business cards really stand out you should consider hiring a graphic designer to design them. The designer can help you by tying all of your business graphics together to make your company have a cohesive identity.

Adding a bit of personality to your card is not a bad idea either. Perhaps you are into preserving the environment. Creating an Eco-Friendly business card and stating it on the card will immediately show your recipient a little bit about who you are.

It is important to spend an equal amount of time on the back of your business card. The back of the card should list a few of your points of focus. For example, if you are a recruiter you will want to list the specialties in which you recruit. It should be in a format that is easy to read and not too wordy.

Test Your Business Cards

After you are confident your new business card is complete it is important to “test drive” your new card before purchasing a box of 500 business cards. Go to a store you trust to get your cards printed and ask to get roughly 50 cards made. This way you have enough to hand out but should you decide to change anything you have not made a huge commitment. Ask friends, family, colleagues, mentors, etc what their thoughts are. Remember, everyone has their opinion and style preferences. Your goal is not to appease everyone’s stylistic views but to create a marketing tool that will get clients to want to use your services. Don’t simply ask, “Do you like it?” Ask more directed questions like, “What is the first thing that catches your eye?” or “Does the card leave you with any missing information that you wish you had?” This way you can take the constructive criticism and use it to edit your cards if necessary.

A business card can be the strongest marketing tool you have but if not executed in a dynamic way; it will simply be an extra cost to you. Make the 3 1/2 by 2 inch business card work for you.