Business Cards have been around since the 17th Century in some form another to advertise a person’s profession and indicate where to find them. One would think that after four centuries of use they’d outlived their usefulness.
With the advancement of digital technology such as email one might think the humble business card has served its purpose and isn’t as necessary as it once was.
What isn’t considered though, is that handing out a business card today, makes more of an impact because of that very technology. Sending email and networking online can be so impersonal and it’s far harder to make a lasting impression due to the volume of emails and requests.
Something tangible that can be touched makes so much more of a lasting impression.
Here are a few reasons why the old school business card is still important …
Personalised
Swapping contact information digitally can be impersonal. Networking is about making genuine connections where you’re remembered for more than just your poorly formatted email signature. Engaging in eye contact and actual conversation is how real relationships begin … obviously sealed with a strong handshake and exchange of business card.
Brand Awareness
Business Cards can be used to promote your company and increase brand awareness. If handed out at the beginning of a meeting they’re the first contact with your brand. For this reason, your business card should be a reflection of your brand … giving the image of quality.
Credibility
A business card can represent trustworthiness, honesty and reliability. Something tangible is always considered more trustworthy than something digital, especially when you consider the amount of fraudulent emails you receive. It’s also unlikely that someone of a deceptive nature would go to the trouble of purchasing premium business cards.
Convenience
Business cards are small enough to hand out, tack on a bulletin board, enclose in a letter or display on a store counter. The standard 90 x 55mm business card is also the perfect size for your wallet.
Organised
The humble business card shows you’re organised and ready to do business. Consider the difference between writing your contact details on a napkin and handing out a professionally designed and printed business card.
A premium quality business card is a must for anyone trying to sell a service or product. Printed with just the right amount of information … it will increase brand awareness, be willingly passed on by others, and work toward increasing sales.
Also consider benefit of adding texture to your business card.
Don’t underestimate the lasting value of something you want to touch, feel and hold onto.