If you think about it, there are many digital alternatives to business cards available to us. For example, it is possible to exchange contact information with someone simply by touching cell phones. People also use their cell phones to log into Linked In to connect to people as soon as they meet. So with all of these digital conveniences, why do we still depend on our old school business cards?
The main reason is that it is still so easy.
We have all been in the situation where we are introduced to someone, and after a short conversation, they ask, “do you have a business card?” Even with all the technological advances, people will still ask for a card.
If you are in a meeting or a networking event, you hope to put your best foot forward and want people to remember who you are. The best way to do that is with a business card. Even though business cards are considered an old-school way of conducting business, they have come a long way.
The old-style cards with your name and title in the center of a plain white card with your contact information in the corners are seldom seen. Business cards are now created in a wide variety of colors and styles. Many people are even now playing with the shapes of their cards. Traditionally, cards are rectangular printed in landscape orientation. Several years ago, it became the style to have cards that were the same shape but printed in portrait orientation. Now we see cards that are in untraditional shapes, including square or even octagonal.
Primarily used to give people your contact information conveniently, business cards are also now a way to show your personality and style. Business cards are available on different card stock and even ultra-thick cards which are made in three layers of two cards with a middle layer that comes in one of several colors to make the card pop. The extra thick card is also a conversation starter that people are guaranteed to react to.
While you can play with the thickness of cards. You can also give your cards a unique feel with several different textures or a unique velvet finish.
Business cards are also an essential part of your marketing plan and help with your personal and company branding. Your business cards work with other marketing materials such as brochures, your website, and digital and traditional advertising to reinforce your brand message to your audience.
Business cards have come a long way over the last generation. It is not simply a way to remind someone of your name, company, and contact information. Business cards are now an opportunity to make a lasting impression. Regardless of how advanced we get with the latest technology, people will be asking if you have a card. If you don’t have one, you may be missing out on your next opportunity.