Career Advice
Get ‘Em Now: Yes, Business Cards Really Do Matter
|
13
While we are living in a digital age, it’s easy to forget how important a little 2 x 3.5 business card really is. It’s not a relic from a former age, but an important part of selling yourself. A business card is part of your first impression, and we all know that we just have one chance to make that first impression.
Like a good interview outfit and impactful resume, a good business card helps you stick out. Look at your business card as your own mini-advisement. Having one shows you are in the game whether you are employed or not.
What a Good Business Card Does for You
At a networking event or dinner party and make a potential work connection? Having a card gives your contact information in a quick, easy way. Getting someone’s card means you can connect with them and follow-up for future opportunities. Basically, no card, no dice. It’s harder to network without one. It can act as a conversation starter, too.
What Makes a Good Business Card?
Good business cards help extend your personal brand message. It should show personality. Have fun with it and make sure you have all your contact information clearly on it. Here are some effective business cards to get your creative juices going.
Want to show some personality but not too much? Consider this sort of look:
(1) In a more conservation field, have fun with the font. Black and white is always a classic. Holly Social Business Cards $55 for 100
(2) Tap into current design trends like chevron and ombre in this design. Chevron $25 for 50
(3) Use color to make a simple design pop. Pattern and Color $34 for 50
(4) Graphic stripes business $45 for 100
(5) Consider a template like this one that you can print as many cards as you need. Business card template, $21.50
Don’t let the costs get in the way of getting in the game. Vista Print offers 250 free (!!) cards. Consider this a good starter card. The price is hard to argue with but they are more boilerplate options.
Who needs one? Everyone. A lot of folks wait to get cards from their places of employment but that is a mistake. Haven’t gotten your first job or between jobs or want to reinvent yourself into a new career? Get a card made. Having a serious day job but doing a side blog, have one made for your passion project. This sets you up to appear more serious about it.
P.S. Keep in a card case so they don’t get all ratty. Nothing like a bent up card to kill a good impression!
Do you have your own business cards? Why or why not? Tell us in the comments section.
Photo courtesy of Camille Styles
Great suggestions– business cards really can show your personality.... and even make someone remember you more!
Great article! Business cards are a great way to show your creativity and personality, like Carly mentioned.
I'm a business card fanatic and at the moment don't have any so I feel a little naked. I don't leave home without my cell and at least 5 biz cards.
I HIGHLY recommend MOO cards. I caught on to them around the same time I stumbled across LEVOLeague (which was just a blog back then).
The quality of the card is unmatched so you will definitely stick out plus there are 100+1 ways to customize the cards right on the site. My cards have my university seal, a QR code, and contact info on one side and then a photo of me on the other. The photo is crucial because it networking situations you end up meeting a ton of people and grabbing cards but may not remember who is who. Just flip the card and *BAM*
Forgot to mention that Moo.com has a student discount http://us.moo.com/students/
Any thoughts on business cards for those of us still in college? I feel like I don't have much use for them... or am I not opening my eyes to the right opportunities?
I'm still in college and have found business cards to be particularly helpful during internships. Seek out networking events for students and young professionals - I have made some great connections there who have given me great advice and helped me focus my career goals.
biz cards are definitely a must-have for business trips/networking events! before I give mine out, I write a simple message on the back: "Looking forward to hearing more about..." or "Thanks for the reco on pilates class--hope you check out next month's book club " or or "My EU mobile is..."
As a sophomore in college I have a business card, and it is the best thing I think I could have done. It is a great way to show that you are dedicated to your future and eager to get your name out there! Plus, all of your friends will be jealous and follow your lead in getting one. I say even after your freshman year of college you should get one if you plan on looking for jobs soon!
I always find business cards from people and tuck it away in case I want to use the contact- can only imagine how helpful it would be to have my own!
I'm off to a conference in April and I was thinking today about ordering business cards. Thanks so much for this information and advice.
I recently read an article asking if the business card was dead due to social media & other tech. However, I agree with Frances and think they are a timeless way to set you apart. I love Two Paper Dolls business cards. Pricey but worth it.
This is a really good reminder. I am the worst at remembering to bring my business cards with me at all times.
I also highly recommend moo.com!