Business Cards

Many times, you have only one chance to get your business contact information in the hands of a potential client.  Having professional looking business cards with you at all times is a way to make sure you don’t pass up any opportunities to promote your business.  Personal business cards can speak on your behalf even when you’re not present.  

Information On Personal Business Cards

You should include all your contact information.  This is imperative in order for your business cards to accomplish their intended goal.  Make sure the following information is included and is correct:  name of business, telephone number, fax number, e-mail address, website (if you have one), and the contact name and title.  Additionally, you should include the days and hours of operation as well as the type of service you provide.  Your personal business cards are a reflection on you as a professional.  People will judge your business and the services you offer based on the quality and accuracy of your business cards.  Take your time proofreading the information before placing your order.  Choose your colors and fonts thoughtfully.  Make sure they convey the right message about you as a reliable professional and the services you offer. 

Templates

Personal business card templates are easy to find.  Thanks to technology, you can customize the template according to your needs and preferences.  One website where you can find a wide array of templates to choose from is the printmadeeasy.com website.  You will find many examples of personal business cards, so you can have an idea of what each design looks like.  Printmadeeasy.com offers 100 free business cards on your first order and a money back guarantee on all orders if you’re not satisfied. 

Another website where you can find templates is flexittemplates.com.  This site also contains many examples of personal business cards.  You can get ideas of the color combinations and various layouts, so you can choose the one that will represent your business the best.  Moreover, this site offers 10% discount in the way of points.  You earn points with each purchase.  One point is equal to US $1.  You can redeem accumulated points against future purchases.  

A third website is nextdayflyers.com.  This website allows you to create your own business card online.  You can even upload your own logo.

Other websites such as businesscardland.com provide instructions on how to make personal business cards.  You will find templates that you can select from as well as easy step-by-step instructions.  Still another website where you can find information on how to make personal business cards is designyourowncard.com.  Once again, this site contains a wide selection of templates and designs.

Standard Options

The card stock and weight is important.  Saving money may be exciting, but your personal business cards are not the area for it.  Printing companies often use 100 lb or 10 point.  This type of stock is too flimsy and does not look very professional.  You may be able to use it on cards with only one color on them.  However, it is inadequate for full color business cards.  Generally 12-point stock is acceptable.  Nonetheless, 14 point is the best option and the standard for business card stock.  The reason being is that it’s thicker and perfect for printing. 

Once you select the card stock, you need to decide whether you want a glossy or matte finish.  If you have an eye-catching design on your cards, glossy stock is your best choice.  Your business cards will be more effective, as they will look professional and convey the message that you take pride in your work.  It’s a good idea to have a UV coating applied; it has a more durable effect.  Business cards that are UV coated last longer than vellum, linen, and matte.  

When To Use Personal Business Cards

Use every opportunity to place a business card.  Make sure to leave your card after meeting with a potential client.  If he or she is undecided about your services, seeing the card later will be a reminder of what you have to offer.  Include your personal business card when you send estimates in the mail, with thank you notes after finishing a project, or after bidding on a job. 

Conventions and trade shows are good opportunities to meet new people and pass out your cards.  Non-competing businesses are also a good choice of places to leave cards.  Speak with the person in charge, and make sure it’s o.k.  to leave a good supply of your business cards.  This is a good way to start your networking group. 

In addition, follow up with a letter after each telephone call where you discussed business, and include your card (you may even include a few cards) with the letter.  Every time you meet a new potential client, hand him several cards and ask him to pass them around to his friends.  This way you multiply your efforts in promoting your business.