Business cards, whether virtual or hard-copy, still remain viable tools for connecting and getting your information in front of potential customers and business connections. Have you updated yours recently? If not, take a look through the following suggestions for ways to spruce up your business card:
Names front and center
You may think it's a no-brainer, but you wouldn't even believe me if I told you the amount of business cards I have in my collection that do not have the company name listed or, at the very least, in a prominent spot. Same goes for your own name. Utilize larger font or another color for your name so that it is clear who the contact information belongs to.
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Drop the generic email
There's no reason to list an "info@..." or "companynamehere@..." email address on a personalized business card. Domain registrations are nominal and typically come with a handful of email addresses that can be personalized. If you hand your business card to someone, they want to be able to get a hold of you...personally.
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Same goes for your Yahoo!, Gmail, Hotmail email addresses
Register your business name (or something similar) as a domain; also a nominal fee. You will move yourself to a higher level of professionalism if, instead of "business@yahoo.com" you have "name@businessname.com" as a business email address. Keep the free email accounts for personal use and make an investment in a business email address.
Add a direct-dial
Just as no one wants to email a generic inbox, no one wants to call the general voicemail box. If you have a direct dial or office line, make sure it is on your card. Sure, you can also list the general line for the office, but if it's your business card, use your number (or include an extension).
One card, one name
Business cards do not cost much to print. Show that you are serious about your business by printing separate cards for each person at the company. Sharing business cards (ie: listing two people on one card but one email or one phone number) is confusing to the person who receives the card.
Websites are essential
If your company does not have a website you are missing the boat. First, get a website. Second, make sure your website is listed in a prime location on your business card. This is the easiest and fastest way for people to check out who you are and what you're about.
Get social
If your company has a blog, Facebook page or Twitter account, be sure to note that on your business card. And if you can, be specific. A Facebook, Twitter or YouTube icon is nice, but unless you show up in a search on those sites (and not everyone does for their exact company name) you should list the link to your page.
White space is a good thing
Do not pack on the info. If you have a two-sided business card that is filled with information, chances are you'll just frustrate the person trying to get a hold of you. Choose the most essential pieces of information and list them. Product prices, customer quotes and sale information do not belong on business cards. Save those items for your website and give your business card a chance to breathe.
Melissa Harrison is principal at Allée, a strategic communications and design firm in Albertville. Need additional help putting together a business card, website or other marketing materials? Send her a note or get in touch on Twitter or Facebook.
