Bad Business Cards = Bad Business

One of the biggest faux pas in the business world is forgetting your business cards or not having any at all. It is truly the one item that you should carry around with you at all times in order to promote your business. You never know when that dream client may walk around the next corner. And if you are attending a business event, PLEASE bring more than you think you may need as it could get ugly (or you could be disappointed) when you run out.

Now if you’ve placed your self into that bucket of not having any cards … shame on you! You are the sole representation of your business. You are marketing yourself to the world. It’s a simple step, so take the plunge!

If you have already taken the plunge into the world of business cards, here are some tips and tricks to watch out for during the design process …

• Zero contact information:
  This is a must, so always include your business name, personal name, phone number and email address. If you have a website or social media accounts those are an added bonus.
  
  
• Typos:
  Make sure to use spell check and have your layout double checked by a second (or even third) set of eyes.
  
  
• Unreadable fonts:
  Try not to use fonts that seem fancy like Papyrus, Cosmic Sans, Lucida Handwriting, Courier, Brush Script, or Algerian. These are just a few to name and are either overused or very hard to read. Especially when on a small item such as your card.
  
  
• Too many fonts:
  As a design rule of thumb (in all instances, not just with your business cards), limit yourself to 2, maybe 3 font choices. If you go over this amount your design will look clunky and seem confusing.
  
  
• Information overload:
  Allow plenty of room for white space. Your business card is a face of necessity. You want them to dig further into your business so use it as a starting point.
  
  
• Low quality printing:
  The worst thing that could happen is you are at a grand business event where everyone is handing out their business cards and you pull yours out and it’s thin, floppy and pixelated. Think super sturdy paper and choose the right finish. Finding a good printer is a tough challenge but paying the price for a good set of cards is well worth it in the end.
  
  
• Boring syndrome:
  Make yourself stand out in this big beautiful world of business. Simple design may sound boring but they are the most interesting if you use the proper font choices and sizes.

Feeling overwhelmed? Can’t afford to hire a graphic designer?

Many online printing companies offer pre-designed templates. While these are not my first choice, if you are looking for an attractive card that has a professional look and feel, something that you can be proud of when on a tight budget, consider looking into this option. But please remember that customization is an option and I highly suggest it.

To narrow this all down … your business cards don’t have to be expensive, but they should at least look expensive. 

They have to be professional and a reflection of you and your business. You’re a professional now so show yourself off to the world!