SECP: The Creative Hub

Captivating Cards
Creating Business Cards people remember
By Stephenie Brost

People have asked me for ways to make their business cards have greater impact. I’ve collected lots of business cards – some beautiful, some, well, were not so attractive. Below is what I’ve found in my search. If you’d like to see how this tracks with your card, feel free to take out your business card and follow along.

The examples of what distracted me in a business card were surprisingly long:

A logo that does not fit your image
Fonts that don’t fit your image
Unclear and hard to read fonts
Bad photos
Backgrounds that compromise the legibility of the information
Un-personalized cards
Incorrect information
No personality
Cutesy or overly decorative (unless appropriate)
Type-set too close to the edge (unless intentional)
Multiple logos: this can be confusing, which company do you represent?
Cards that are too big for standard size holders

My list for what makes a good card is not as long. There are a few simple rules to follow to achieve a fantastic card. Examples incorporate these qualities:

Easy to read information
Demonstrates your personality
Unique and interesting
Pleasing layout
Well organized information
Printed on a nice cardstock
Informative (ex. Short biography or services on the back - if appropriate)

As you look at your business card, consider the following:

Have a logo and business card designed that defines your company and fits its image.
If you aren’t photogenic, look for alternatives. If it’s imperative that your photo is on your card, consult a professional photographer that can help you look your absolute best.
Less is more. If used, a background should be subtle and not overpowering.
If a representative of your company has his name hand written or someone else’s crossed out, this reflects poorly on your company. Work with a designer that can design an effective and affordable solution to cards for multiple employees that can be easily updated.
If you are required to show multiple logos, make sure the company you represent has the largest logo or consider putting affiliates’ logos on the back.
While odd sized cards draw attention, they may be thrown away if people are unable to file them. Lots of options are available for different size and shaped cards that will fit nicely into a cardholder.

Regardless of the amount of information on your card, this is a tiny brochure of your company. People keep business cards for a long time. A few months from now, people may not remember you, but if they have your card, your company is still being represented. If your card is not professional, what is their impression of your company?

Brost Design is committed to creating unique, quality designs that forgo trends. A nationally recognized designer, Stephenie designs logos, creates brand identities and marketing materials for companies wanting to create or transform their image.

Captivating Cards Creating Business Cards people remember By Stephenie Brost

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Captivating Cards
Creating Business Cards people remember
By Stephenie Brost