The world of business marketing is always changing. However, one mainstay throughout the evolution is the business card.
That said, it’s not without some turbulence. People were questioning whether business cards were still useful as recently as last year, but the general consensus continues to be that they are, even by some of those with vague doubts. From business owners to employees, business cards give them a creative way to reach out to clients and partners, successfully landing a more positive first impression.
To succeed in this, some modernization techniques may be necessary first. So, what can be done here?
Make it Brief
Professionals should try to keep their business cards compact and brief. Much can depend on that effort. Many people are dealing with relentless bad advertisements online, and it can be frustrating. A business card may not seem like a big deal in that sense, as receiving them is completely optional, but scaling back the information it provides should be a priority if it’s contributing to this wider data epidemic that nobody is asking for. Business cards may only be small, but they can provide an incredible amount of value and build goodwill when utilized properly.
It’s not just about the business card being a symptom of wider information overload either. People are already suffering the effects of this, and a modern business card can be an acute antidote to the relentless bombardment of lengthy ads and pitches elsewhere. Featuring a name, QR code, job title, email address, and phone number is enough. Distracting pleas, calls to action, and company profile summaries should be omitted.
Modern business cards often feature QR codes, allowing instant access to various digital assets like social media profiles and company websites. For those new to this tech, understanding how to scan QR codes can be crucial in accessing the wealth of information and contact details they hold.
Brief copy is better organized, too. Businesspeople can design their card to be symmetrical, for instance. Presentational factors play a huge role in drawing the eye, especially in a world where firms regularly dump pages of mind-numbing copy on a person for them to read through.
Feature a QR Code
QR codes were just mentioned in the heading above. It’s worth explaining more about them for any businesspeople unfamiliar with their uses here. Most professionals will have encountered QR codes before. These digital patterns, typically square-shaped, can be scanned with a smartphone device, as almost all are fitted with the tech to do so. After that, the smartphone user can be redirected to social media profiles, company websites, and any other digital representation of the firm. Physical addresses can also be supplied this way. So, the presence of a QR code helps keep the business card brief, with much of its information stored elsewhere.
Businesspeople sometimes use an online QR code generator to make headway here. Whatever’s produced can also be customized and styled, so they’re not stuck with something generic-looking. These tools also make it easier to add the same QR code to other marketing initiatives, too; campaigns, menus, product listings, signage, and more.
All of this makes the QR code an integral addition not just to the business card but to the larger brand appeal.
Integrating unique elements such as customized or 3d print QR Code features on a business card can boost interaction and engagement. These innovative QR Codes are not only durable and visually appealing but also offer interactive marketing possibilities that capture the attention of clients and partners.
Use the Logo Strategically
Most people know that logos typically feature on a business card. Typically doesn’t mean always, though, and there are some enterprising individuals that unwisely omit them.
Business card holders should also think carefully about how they position the logo. Useful questions they might want to ask themselves include:
- Is the logo matching/complimenting the color scheme used elsewhere on the card?
- Can the logo be embossed for added texture on the business card?
- Should the logo be resized to be more proportionate with the text?
- Was the file used formatted properly for high-definition image presentation?
Using a logo on a business card is a point of professional graphic design rather than a simple copy-and-paste job. If something looks a little off, it can undermine the quality and professionalism the business card is attempting to convey.
Follow Latest Trends
Trends come and go across all aspects of the enterprising world. Business cards aren’t exempt from that. Those designing a business card should monitor the upcoming trends associated with them and make amendments where they feel they should. It can be an annual effort, with 2023’s business card design trends already outlined by major publications. There’s advice on color schemes, the use of geometric shapes, or even utilizing pH testing paper for an interactive twist.
Not every trend will appeal to every businessperson, and that’s valid. At the same time, keeping an open mind is still advised. Even if a good idea doesn’t strictly apply to the business card holder, they can still provide inspiration, be built upon, and eventually lead to something else that’s promising.
Conclusion
Modernizing a business card will be a recurring process. That said, long as those overseeing the design process are considerate of others, they can make something compact on the surface but more in-depth with the optional use of a QR code. They can create logos that are easy on the eye and follow the latest trends to fine-tune things where required. The design process should be relatively straightforward, like using the card.
