7 Ways to Keep Your Business Card Out of the Trash

You go to a networking event and exchange business cards.  What do you do with them when you get back to the office? The cold hard truth is that 88% of business cards handed out will be tossed in the trash within one week.  So how can you make sure your card makes the cut?

 

1.  Stand Out With Stock – When you hand your card out, the first thing people will notice is the texture.  Make sure that your card is on good, heavy paper.  You want it to hold up and stand out in a stack that gets shuffled through time and time again.  Use spot or full UV coatings to make images pop or round corners of your card to give it a slightly different appearance.  Request samples of papers to see and feel the difference and find the best match for you.

2.  Use Vibrant Color and Images – Prospective clients hold on to a color business card 10 times longer than a standard white card!  Use color to elevate your card, whether it be in your logo, images, text or the entire background.  Keep your  business card color and images in line with your other branded materials.  Crisp colors and images will make a lasting impression.

3. Do Double Duty – Double the amount of space you have to convey your message by utilizing the back side of your card.  This space can be used to give an awesome call to action or an enticing reason to call or visit your location or website.  You can also use this as a place to list multiple locations, include a map to your location or a promotion.

4. Keep it simple –  Your business card is a first impression – NOT a contract.  Don’t overload the card with too much information or forget vitals like how to get in touch with you.  Balance is key so be sure your message is clear and easy to read. This includes using easy, readable fonts and making sure your design does not clash with your text.

5.  Incorporate an Extra – What is one small piece of information you can incorporate into your card that would make your target audience keep it around?  Try an event schedule, calendar, or even a ruler.  Get creative and think about what would make you want to reference a card over and over again.

6. Include a Discount or Reward – People like to save money! They’ll keep your card around if it includes a great offer.  Create a compelling offer that makes people want to reach out to you personally.  This can be anything from a coffee meeting to a free consultation. You’ll want to consider your time and be sure that you can deliver on your offer!

7. Hire a Professional –  Don’t leave your first impression falling flat, hire a professional to design and print your business cards.  Skimping on this very important business tool can make you and your business look sub par.  Leave the design and print to the professionals and use your time doing what you do best for your customers!

 

What was the most memorable business card you ever received?  Why did it stand out to you?  Comment below with your tips and ideas!