A2X Consulting

You would think that with all of the developments going on with technology that certain tools that have existed before the internet age would be virtually extinct at this point; things like business cards. However, the truth of the matter is that business cards are still a big time favorite when it comes to networking, marketing and being a reference point as it relates to retrieving contact information. So, if you’ve been wondering if creating a (new) batch is a worthwhile business investment, the answer to that would be “Definitely so.”

Yet, before you call you a local printer to place an order (or reorder), it’s a good idea to make sure that your design is sleek, modern and effective. After all, it will serve as a reminder to all of the people that you come into contact with as it relates to who you are and what you represent.

Does that feel like a lot of pressure? No worries. Below are five common business card design mistakes that people tend to make and ways that you can avoid them so that your own card will come out just right.

The font is too small. When it comes to business cards, there’s nothing worse than getting one that looks good, but then you have to strain to read the copy that’s on it. Remember, a business card is to serve as a convenient form of displaying information. This would definitely mean that it needs to be readable. And while we’re on the subject of fonts, make sure to pick a color that is not too light against the base color of the card as well.

The paper is glossy. There are some business cards that are visually stunning, but at the same time, they are pretty annoying as well. Glossy cards are a perfect example of this because oftentimes, when people exchange business cards, there is additional information that they tend to want to jot down. Have you ever tried to use your pen on glossy stock paper? Yeah, it doesn’t go so well.

There is no social media information enclosed. Although it’s definitely wise to include contact information like your name, address, phone number and even your email address, the reality is that a lot of people will probably look for you on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn, first. So, if you have those kinds of accounts, make sure that they’re listed on your business card, for sure.

The website and business card don’t match. Suppose you have a company that sells self adhesive labels UK and your business card has a logo with a blue and white logo on it. But then when people check out your website, the colors are black and red? There’s a lot to be said for consistent branding and this would include making sure that the layout of your business cards and website match.

Only using the front of the card. How many times have you handed someone a business card and they’ve flipped it over while you were talking to them? Since they’re already looking back there, why not give them something else to look at? If you’re wondering what to do with all of that extra blank space, it’s a great place to list your social media info or to even include your brand promise or tagline. Hey, you’re paying to have the cards printed, anyway. You might as well get as much out of your money as you can. That’s definitely the sign of doing good business.