Business Cards: Your Own Wallet-Sized Billboard

So many people start businesses these days without the one crucial marketing piece they need to make a great first impression. I'm talking about a business card. Today we'll take a look at why business cards are so important and how you can get yours easily and inexpensively.

First Impressions

Everyone knows first impressions are very important. Your business card can often be the first impression someone gets of you and your business. Why? The answer is because you may not always be there when someone sees your business card. You might have left one somewhere or given one to someone else who has passed it on as a referral. If someone has never met you before, your card has to represent you in the best possible light.

So how do you create a first impression with your cards? Well, for starters, you don't want to go buy some flimsy plain white do-it-yourself cards from the office supply store and just put your name and phone number on them. Your card is an extension of you and your business so it should look professional and show a bit of your personality at the same time.

Grab Their Attention with Design

Your business card needs to have more than just contact information. It needs to stand out in a sea of other cards that might already be on someone's desk. How can you make sure your card stands out? A good design is the answer. Now, don't panic and start thinking, "I am not a designer, how can I create a good looking business card?" You don't have to be a designer! There are several options for putting together an eye catching business card.

Pre-Designed Cards

There are many companies that offer pre-packaged, pre-designed cards where you simply enter in your information from your computer and print them out with a good quality printer. You can find these in the business card section of just about any office supply store. Instructions are included and you can have great looking business cards in minutes. The problem with doing it yourself is that sometimes the printer doesn't align the paper properly and some of the cards come out with the printing slightly crooked or even cut off. Pre-designed cards are great when you need them in a pinch but I would suggest opting for professionally printed cards.

Online Design and Printing

There are several online companies that offer business card templates and even several designs to choose from. You can create your professional looking card right on their website and within a few days they arrive at your door. Printing for Less is an excellent resource for business cards. You can use one of their many customizable templates or upload your own design. Their convenient website makes it easy and very inexpensive way to get high quality business cards.

Design Your Own Cards

If you have design skills you can design your own cards and either upload them to be printed through an online company or have them printed locally. If you are not a designer you can hire one. There are many excellent graphic designers out there waiting for your business. Rates vary so shop around. You can also save money by hiring a graphic design student. Many are looking for experience and will design your card for free or for a big discount.

What Information Goes On the Card?

Since you're working with such a small space, obviously there can't be too much information on your card but the following information should be included:

• Company name
• Your first and last name
• Phone number (business phone and/or cell phone)
• Fax number if you have one
• Website address if you have one
• Email address
• Logo 
• Tagline (optional)
• List of services (optional)

Don't forget about the back when designing your card. This is a great place to list your services, tagline, discount information or anything else you'd like to add so people remember you and contact you.

Where Should I Leave My Card?

Now that you've got a great looking business card, the following are some ideas on where you can leave it for others to see:

• Pass it out at networking events
• Enclose in envelope when paying bills
• Restaurants
• Bookstores (you can slip your card in a book that applies to your business)
• Anywhere and everywhere else you go

A business card is a perfect way to promote yourself and what you do. It should be your first marketing tool and something you keep with you at all times. So what are you waiting for? Get your cards today!