In today’s technology driven world, business cards still hold their place in getting your brand or product out there and remembered. Traditional business cards are always available any time any place as they don’t rely on internet access, battery charge or device compatibility. Here are some basic tips for making sure they are effective and used effectively.
Your business card should contain the most relevant information and little else. It should include your name, company name, phone number, email, and website. This may be a place to put your social media information as well. One of the more modern things to use on a business card is a QR code. This code should lead to your website, schedule, menu etc…
Keep the design simple…sorta. Business cards are traditionally 2” x 3.5”. If you use the traditional design, choose simple readable fonts with a color that is easy on the eyes for viewing. The main
reason why most business cards contain a single color on one side and blank on one side is for prospective clients you give them to to take notes.
Make the design complex…sorta. So you just read about the KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid) philosophy about business cards. The thing of it is – that’s not written in stone. Business cards can be an extension of your personality or your business’ personality as well. Imagine having your business card in the shape of a pizza slice. Or what kind of impression do you think you would make if your business card was the silhouette of your mobile oven? Even a traditionally shaped business card with bright and popping colors can set a tone for your clientele. You have to decide what kind of impression you want to leave them with!
The cost of a business card doesn’t have to break the bank, either. There are plenty of online webstores as well as in-person stores that offer business card printing at reasonable prices. Remember that ordering in bulk means those are the printed cards you will have until you exhaust them all! This means if you print 1000 cards which have a coupon on the back for “20% off your next order”, then you will have 1000 cards that offer your clients a 20% discount. And if you decide to change the promotion, you still have those cards out there waiting to be redeemed.
There will always be somewhere for you to leave your business card for someone to see. Be creative about where you leave your card. Ask local businesses in your area if they will let you leave a stack of cards on their counter. Party and rental stores are a great place to leave your cards as well as local markets, restaurants, schools, colleges and coffee shops. The more visibility you have as you start your business, the better!
An interesting and very cost effective way of having a business card is by using a digital business card, also known as a virtual or electronic business card. These can be created on any smartphone. Like any business card, they can be customized, designed, and shared with anyone you meet. Since it is digital, there are no constraints with how much information you would like to offer. They can also enrich your card with a photo, video, a logo, and more. If you would like more information on this, surf over to hihello.me and see what is possible.
But be prepared to always have the card to present to someone. Carrying it with you is extremely important as you never know where you can find your next client, customer, or event. Having the card handy will also help your appearance in the professional food industry as well. After all, you are a food industry professional!
