Creating an Appealing and Effective Business Card

Even with online marketing, email blasting, and endless twittering, a good-looking business card is still integral to effective promotion. Without doubt, an appealing business card can present an image that is immediately noticeable, and easily recalled. In many cases, a business card can be a major plus or major minus as a first impression. In short, it makes good business sense to have an appealing business card that effectively communicates a business message.

How to create that appealing business card is another question. And while every businessperson thinks they know what’s best, it’s actually better to get objective design advice from the experts. Card style is important - and colour scheme - card finish. And for some, fancy features could be important. But what’s most critical is to effectively communicate a desired image and message.

The Basic Card

Sometimes, basic is good. One colour of ink, on white card stock, with a clean design, does the job. A simple design, with concise information, may well represent the look and feel of the business.

The Photo Card

For some businesses, and for a variety of reasons, having a personal photo (or caricature) can be a practical way to connect. For some, having an image of a product or service can be effective.

The Tactile Card

While more expensive, cards that are embossed, or die-cut, or folded, can stand out because they are unusual. The premium cost may be worthwhile for businesses that want the extra boost.

The Multi-Use Card

Many businesses actually require a business card that is multipurpose – with a built-in coupon, or an appointment reminder, or a geographic map. Here again, if it works, it’s a good idea.

The “Wild” Card

In some unique cases, it’s important to create attention. This is where professional creativity can step up, with a unique and innovative creation that’s noticeable (also requires more budget).

At one point, a visit to the printer will be required. This is where everything can come together, especially with a printing company that can offer creative concepts and production options that satisfy client needs. Beyond creativity, though, it’s important not to overlook the basics - like the accuracy of company information – this is where double-checking and triple checking pays off.

Today, with the advent of online business card offers, and with discounts and freebies, it all looks quite attractive.  But like anything, a professional touch, with a reliable printer, has some definite benefits. Needless to say, online connectivity is all part of the service package, but there’s more – like design expertise, and production know-how, and proof-checking, and even delivery services.

The best approach to business card printing is a collaborative one. It means working in tandem with a reputable printer to coordinate the project - including the card style; the colour scheme; and even the fancy features. Once the desired image and message and look have been established, all of the other printed materials can follow suit. Its an integrated approach to print marketing.