Catch them ’cause you can: Business Cards

Here we have the next article of our new series about design tips and how it can increase the relationship between you and your customer. In this series we will introduce to you all our products like flyers, business cards, calendars and many more. Business cards lend legitimacy to your business, and can make you stand out from the crowd of competitors. But the first impression is the most important one. It takes only 7 – 10 seconds and your potential client is building up a lasting opinion about you. We have put together some business card layout guidelines to support building a good relation to potential customers.

1. Size & Colour

When you’re designing a business card it’s very important to keep your card unique, you do want to be sure the card fits a standard business card size. The most common card size is 85 mm x 55 mm. Sometimes it is the best to make it simple and do not try and make it a funny shape, or too large. It must fit into a business card holder or wallet. Use only those colours which are in your logo or other images, in text or in background elements. Stay with a maximum of 3-4 colours. Pull colours from your logo for other background elements and type colours.

© Design by Mauricio De La Garza Clariond

2. Mainly information

Sometimes it is getting confusing which information I should put on the card. The main business card layout guidelines are almost the same on every business card. But from time to time there are new social media information or something new and the question stands out, do I need to put this on my business card?

I have created a small checklist with information which should be on the business card:

• Your name – Put the name and surname your contacts know you by.
• What you do – Remember to include what you do or what defines your job scope. Include the organisation you are currently attached to if you wish.
• Contact information – Phone number, e-mail, work address, 1 – 2 social media profiles.
• QR Code – QR codes are a great way to visually present web addresses, phone numbers or vCards. There are plenty of free QR code generators on the Web to help you with this.

3. Readable information

The information on your business card must be readable. You wouldn’t want your clients to have to strain their eyes to read your phone number or email. Make sure your text is at least 8 pt, in a clear readable font and in bold colour. Anything smaller than 8 pt may look fine on your monitor, but after printing it will be unreadable. You could also try to accentuate your name or important contact information by making it slightly bigger or bolder than the rest of your information.

© Design by Ovi Prunean

4. Define your business

Use your business card as an opportunity to let people know what it is exactly that your business does. This can be done by picture, photo, simple phrase or slogan. Be sure to include the companies logo, as well. Keep it short and simple, but make sure the person looking at the card will easily be able to understand the services of the company.

5. Be creative

You are creating business cards not only for exchanging contacts but to be remembered, especially when exchanging at a networking event. That’s why it is good to add color, a fun design, or even a catchy phrase to make the card memorable. You should try anything which will help you to make the card interesting, yet still maintain the identity of the business will help making your business card unforgettable.

© Design by Duane Smith