Designing Business Cards

Business cards are more than just a means of dispensing information related to a company or a business entity. Business cards also reflect the image of a company and can be a way of displaying a brand. Recipients often get their first impressions of a company via a business card. This is why the process of designing business cards is as equally important as distributing them to target markets and consumers. A good business card often project positive image and recognition of a certain company or person.

There is a good reason why business cards come in almost a uniform size. Its standard size makes its easy for distribution and for keeping them in small pouches and wallets, to be taken out when needed by the keeper. However, companies who wish to go beyond the norm and wish to print business cards of different sizes may do so. In fact, PrintRunner.com offers this service to interested clients. It is good to keep in mind that every aspect of graphic design and business card printing reflects back on the company that commissions them. To appear glamorous and hip, business cards may be glossy. However, companies who wish to come off as elegant and professional might opt to have business cards with matte finish.

Business cards should contain all the necessary information needed to contact the company it represents. It should have the logo, the name, physical address, as well as contact information like telephone numbers, website URL, and email address, if available. Text must be readable and easily understood. It would also not do any good for a company to use a different logo in their business cards and another in their other resources such as letterheads and websites. To project a message of stability and consistency, companies often adopt only one logo or image to represent them. This also enhances brand awareness and interest among consumers.

Some companies also add images to their business cards. This is because images serve to catch the attention of consumers as well as pique their interest. Images and graphic designs are also used to convey subtle messages to consumers. Some companies even opt to use cartoons as a means of telling prospective market that they are likeable and easy to approach.

Another trend in business card printing is the use of ‘green’ or sustainable materials. PrintRunner.com offers ‘green’ business cards to environmentally conscious clients who want to make their contributions in lessening pollution in the planet. These include using recycled yet attractive papers, printing on both sides, and selective coloring of texts to minimize wasting on colored inks.

Another good way to promote brand awareness and increase marketing would be to integrate other uses of the business card, such as making them membership cards for the company’s loyalty program or printing a coupon at the back of the card that recipients can use to redeem certain promotional items.