Business Cards: The Underrated Key To Business
At Universal Graphics, we specialize in anything marketing and design. We know good design when we see it, but the way in which that design is used is also key to success. The business card is a time-tested way to advertise a person or company, but it’s slowly losing favor in the digital age.
We believe that business cards still have their place, and in fact, can leave a more lasting impression than something more digital or tech-savvy. Since it’s losing popularity, however, many business cards simply aren’t designed to really grab attention and create memories. We thought we should fix that, so we decided to profile and create some tips for making your business card stand out.
A Quick History
In some form or another, business cards have been an incredibly useful part of the businessman’s repertoire. The oft-cited first examples of business cards were “visiting cards” popular in China during the 15th century. They were often sent in advance, acting as personal promotional material and building ethos before one’s arrival.
The practice soon spread to Europe, and by the 17th century had become a fixture of professional and personal life. A great business card was an excellent way to advertise services, location, and one’s own personality and style. Lettering, silver and gold elements, and intricate artwork made business cards stand out and reflect an air of importance on the owner.
For some business owners, it was also important to have a map or detailed sketch of their building, so potential customers could find it. These particular cards were called “trade cards”, and were essential for developing new business. Eventually, as printing and travel improved, the various types of cards merged into the business cards we know today. Now, business cards come equipped with a logo, coloring, contact info, and even with useful tools in some cases.
The Modern Business Card
The modern business card is an amalgamation of the various business cultures around the globe. The “visiting cards” of China, “trading cards” of Europe, and the many other cultures of the world have made way to what we currently call a business card.
The modern business card is quite simple, and tat simplicity has led to remarkable and unique designs over the decades. The most basic business card will have the company name and logo, accompanied by all relevant contact information. Since we have addresses and GPS, there’s no longer a need for the trading cards of yesteryear. However, even incorporating the building onto a card would be a great idea if it had an iconic or unique design.
For the typical business card, though, simplicity and recognizability are the name of the game. For recognizability, the company name, logo, and color scheme all help to separate your business from the next. Having your business card be a snapshot of the business is the best way to craft it.
Most good business cards use all of the entire card for some purpose; you don’t want to have empty, useless space on the card. The back of the card can have just the logo and some simple art or designs, while the front of the card has all of the necessary information. Otherwise, your card may seem lackluster and will be discarded soon after you had it to someone.
The Digital Age and Business Cards
The 21st century has brought a flurry of technological advancements, improving our access to information, goods, and services. But that flurry of technological innovation has led to many interactions having their anchor in the virtual world. Nearly everyone has some level of online presence, from simple online purchases to social media influencers.
With so many interactions taking place online, the importance of the business card has slowly faded as a result. Your LinkedIn profile may be the first impression you have, rather than a face-to-face meeting. As a result, some people simply don’t bother with a business card, instead opting for a more digital focus and presence. However, a business card in the 21st century is all the more impressive for that very reason.
Online profiles have their place in influencing business, but nothing can replace the feeling of a business card. Since most people reside online, a business card can give your business an edge that other companies simply won’t have. Taking the time to craft a great business card will give your business a level of professionalism and ethos that otherwise wouldn’t be there.
Choose Universal Graphics For Your Business Cards
For years, Universal Graphics has provided expert graphics for all kinds of businesses and mediums. From business cards to promotional materials, you can trust Universal Graphics to get the job done right! Give us a call to get started!