We are deep into the digital age today. iPhones, BlackBerrys, Facebook, and e-mails make up most peoples day to day activities. There is no denying that technology and gadgets run out lives today and likely will for the forseeable future. So, where does this leave the modest paper business cards? To many people these cards may look like a historical object that anyone who still uses them is hopelessly falling behind the fad and modern day business.
But as old-fashioned as these cards may look, in the communication and business world, they remain a significant and indispensable tool to market yourself and your business. The key here is to create cards that are unforgettable, eye-popping and useful, cards that can immediately sum up your offering at a glance.
Even though social media and online marketing get all the hype these days, a lot of business owners still prefer to do business interaction face to face. Many still interact with prospective customers and clients at business events, trade shows, or social gatherings.
In all those cases handing out paper cards is still the best way to create a professional image and formalize your communication. With these cards, you can make it easy for your prospects to remember your name and your business. You never know, you can seal a deal while exchanging cards.
If you are lucky and you get to design your cards effectively, the person you meet is likely to keep your card and include you in their contact list. They can keep your card in their card holders or in their electronic file. However they keep your card, you can be sure that you are already on top of your prospects mind.
As a time tested marketing tool, the business card may still be effective but it has gone through a lot of changes overtime. A lot of designs are available these days. You can simply look at online web sites and you can already see a lot of stylish and creative business card templates. You can use these templates as your design, but you have to be careful as your card will look generic unless you are able to put in personalized touches in your design.
What is important is you keep your cards current, attractive but not overstuffed with information. The practice these days is to cram as much information as you can into such a small space. Aside from the business name, contact numbers, and email address, some add their logo, Facebook link, Twitter URl, list of their benefits, and many others. The result is a confusing card that is most likely not to get kept.
If you have an account on every social media site today, do not get tempted to add them all in your card. A good strategy is to just list your web site, and then just put on your site all the links to their social media accounts. If your prospects are interested, they can simply click on the link to your accounts.
These days, you basically have a lot of options when it comes to colors. Gone are the days when you can simply create black and white cards. Photographs, images, and artwork are not possible. When printed in good colors, your artwork or image can help amplify the look of your card and make it more memorable.
Although it is always a good idea to create your own card, it is always best to hire a pro to create a professional looking card. Remember that your cards are not created to be stored. Get them out there and make it do business for you.
As always, comments are welcomed.
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