Business cards have been around since 15th century China. Originally called “visiting cards”, they served as a form of self-promotion for aristocrats. Those playing card sized, engraved social statements have evolved into the more compact version we recognize today. Each year, seven BILLION business cards are printed around the world. What you include on those business cards and how your information is presented can make for a memorable experience or a lost opportunity.
To make that first impression unforgettable, what do you need to know about crafting your business card?
Here are a few things to think about:
1. What information should I include?
2. Which paper stock and finish should I choose?
3. What colors should I use?
What information should I include on my business card?
1. Company Logo – Your company logo sets you apart from other businesses by helping customers identify and recognize your brand. Include your logo on all your marketing materials to establish and reinforce your identity. Don’t have a logo? PDQ can help!
2. Basic personal and business information – Include the company name along with your name and job title. This allows potential customers to easily remember who you are and what you do within the company. Don’t forget to include the company address, especially if you work in a retail establishment.
3. Communication channels – Let recipients know how to contact you! Include your company and/or cell phone numbers, along with a professional email address. You may also want to add your company’s website and links to social media accounts.
4. Tagline – Does your company use a catchy quote or phrase? Incorporate that to reinforce your brand and cement your corporate identity within the business world.
Which paper stock and finish should I choose?
In general, business cards are printed on cardstock. Most commonly, PDQ prints business cards on 14 pt. cover stock. This stock is coated on the front for one-sided printing and coated on both sides for two-sided printing. The coating gives the effect of a semi-gloss finish. For a higher gloss finish, customers can choose to add UV coating to their business cards.
Some businesses prefer more of a matte finish. This can be accomplished by choosing 100 lb. card stock. For a true matte finish and heavier card, customers can choose 16 pt. matte cardstock.
Weight and finish are a personal preference and should be chosen with your business and other collateral materials in mind. Remember, consistency is key.
What colors should I use?
PDQ can print your business cards many different ways. You can choose full color on both sides, full color on the front with a black and white back, or full color or black and white on the front only.
When deciding on colors, think about your company logo colors and how those can be incorporated with the other information presented on your card. Repeating those logo colors or choosing complementary colors can lead to a cohesive, easy to read and memorable business card!
Tips from the pros at PDQ
1. Avoid adding too much information on your business card. Think of your business card as a basic introduction to and reminder about your company, not a comprehensive guide. Keep your business card concise, not cluttered. Consider flyers or brochures to explain more about your company’s services.
2. Keep your colors in line with your business logo and brand identity. Using too many colors or colors that are off-brand can cause confusion for your clients.
3. Fonts should be chosen based on your company brand. Much like your logo, the same fonts should be used on all your marketing materials. This helps establish your business identity and sets you apart from the competition. Try to keep your fonts at a maximum of three.
Have questions or want more information about business card possibilities? Need help with your design? Reach out to PDQ Quality Printing today for your customized quote!