I love business cards. Each one that I’ve designed or collaborated with a business partner to create has been my very favorite. There’s excitement at the initial stage of development when you are naming your business and considering what the colors, logo and messaging will be. Finding the right shade, the most appealing fonts, and a perfectly fitting graphic can provide a powerful boost to your next launch, redesign or re-branding effort. Business cards can play a crucial part in any career move, including starting a new business, planning your next step after a layoff, or making a career change.
However, some clients may get stuck on creating a masterpiece, but don’t know how to begin. If you’ve recently been laid-off by your employer, or in career transition, designing an attractive business card is likely not a high priority. How will you describe yourself if you don’t have a job? Omit a title or use Consultant in your field as yet to be named. What if you have a full-time job and also plan a side business not related to your primary career? Can you have more than one business card? Many people carry multiple cards. Some clients feel that technology has made them obsolete, so why bother at all? Technology may replace cards in the future, but for now, it’s still the easiest way to share contact info, especially with many people at once.
Aren’t you dating yourself when you ask to exchange business cards?
Make no mistake about it; the business card is the universally accepted ice-breaker for business opportunists. The simple request to exchange cards is an instant conversation starter. Use it to learn more and engage with the person in front of you.
Business cards can be easily ordered online and turned around quickly, or you can take the longer route and work with a graphic designer. Their purpose is to be informative but not encyclopedia like with too much data or confusing text. This is not necessarily a one-time-only card and while there’s a range in cost, it’s generally quite reasonable to print hundreds.
Key tips
- Choose the company with care and avoid *FREE* cards (Free is printed on the reverse)
- Select heavier card stock
- Keep the back blank with a matte finish (good for notes), the front can be glossy
- Keep it simple- a square or round card may be memorable but won’t fit in a card holder
What’s most important?
- Your name, company name, phone number(s), e-mail, website and physical address if you have room and your logo if you have one
- Avoid cluttering up the card
- You can refine and revise with future versions
- Just get one done!
It can be helpful to discuss your goals and creative requirements before finalizing your selection. At KICKSTART Your Transition, we offer career coaching, consulting and management services, so we understand the big picture while also helping you with the details. See how our services can support you in your next step! www.kickstartyourtransition.com
