Despite living in a digital age where nearly all aspects of business are online, the humble business card continues to be an essential tool. From trade shows to networking events, business cards provide a quick and efficient way to share contact information with potential clients and partners. However, business cards offer much more than just contact details. In this article, we’ll explore five reasons why business cards are still important in today’s business world. No matter what a person’s level of experience is, understanding the value of a well-designed business card can help take your business to the next level. To find out where to create a custom business card, check out any the various custom business card printing services online.
Professionalism
We’ve all been in that uncomfortable situation, fumbling around for a pen or wasting time trying to figure out how to share contacts through smartphones. Having a business card on hand and ready to go makes business owners look prepared and professional. Neps warns that while having smartphones helps, relying on them solely is risky. Not everyone owns a compatible device and they aren’t reliable. A business card eliminates these potential issues.
Not only does it save us from potential headaches or mishaps, it provides a sense of professionalism. A business card that’s made and ready to go signals to people that you’re experienced with networking and value efficiency. It shows that you or your company took the time to create a tangible representation of your brand, rather than relying solely on digital means.
Easily Share Contact Details
One of the reasons why business cards are still widely used is their convenience in providing contact information. Clients rely heavily on a company’s contact details, which can be easily found on the card, including email address and phone number. One of the best things about business cards according to Design Hill is that they are easily stored in handy places, such as a wallet or drawer. This makes it quick and easy to retrieve a company’s details when necessary.
While some digital devices like iPhones and Android phones can transfer information, as we mentioned before, compatibility issues can arise. This might leave potential customers without access to important information. As a result, Design Hill says a physical business card is the most reliable and universally accessible means of sharing contact information.
Personal Touch
When you give someone your business card, you’re giving them a tangible representation of you and your business, notes LinkedIn. They can hold it, touch it, and feel it. While it may not seem that different from typing information into someone’s phone, there’s a memorable sensory difference.
Contact details can easily get lost in peoples phones. Instead of looking at a screen, the source points out that business cards put information front and center. To ensure it stands out even more, use a unique font, colors, and print it on a material that feels pleasant. A business card has a personal touch because it is a physical object that customers can hold. This is unlike the digital information on a phone that exists only virtually.
Good First Impression
Having a professionally designed and high-quality business card conveys a sense of readiness and competence. It establishes your business’s legitimacy and, especially for new businesses, generates a sense of credibility, explains Vista Print. The source uses the example of a menu at a restaurant. If a menu on a plain copy paper at a fancy restaurant had errors, you’d likely doubt the quality of the establishment.
The appearance and texture of a business card can have a similar effect. According to the source, business cards not only share information, but help build trust, enhance a brand, and set businesses apart from competitors. By using premium materials and features such as embossed gloss, business owners can demonstrate their commitment to being a professional who values attention to detail.
Direct Marketing Tool
Your business card is not just a mere piece of paper. LinkedIn describes it as a powerful marketing tool that can travel with people, potentially reaching a broader audience. People often share and circulate business cards, or even post them on bulletin boards in public spaces. In co-working spaces, people tend to exchange business cards frequently looking for collaboration and support, notes the source. If you offer great services, people are more likely to share your information with others.
Most business owners know that word of mouth is one of the best ways to get new business. If a customer has your business card on hand, they’ll pass it along to someone else who might need it. And voila! They’ve spread the word about your business for you. To promote yourself effectively, LinkedIn suggests giving business cards to family and friends who can help reach new customers. You should also include referral codes on these cards, offering discounts or rewards to clients who use them. This can help to encourage word-of-mouth marketing and attract new customers.