Everyone knows how important first impressions are. A bad first impression is likely to linger in one’s mind far longer than a really good one. It’s not all about appearance and charisma with first impressions, although that certainly does help. Think about it- I bet you can recall many people you’ve met that certainly stick out and not necessarily in a good way.
In business, one of the most under utilized weapons to ensure a lasting, and good, first impression is the business card. It is your defense against leaving a bad first impression. A well designed, colorful business card reflects your business and personality while providing needed information. I cannot recall how many plain white stock, one color text, down right boring business cards I have seen. To top that off- I can’t even recall whose business cards they were or even a business name! Didn’t leave me with a lasting good first impression. There may be a few business cards you’ve collected in a desk drawer somewhere right now, and I would bet there are cards just like this in there.
• All Cards Shown were Re-designed by Jeide Designs. Printing was done by LowCostPrintShop.com
(division of Jeide Designs).
Business cards sit on desks just waiting to be taken. They are mailed out with invoices. They are handed out like candy. You want people who receive your business card to not only have your information, but you want them to remember that card! People are more likely to recall a
great piece of art just based on the painting or picture, but they may not remember the artist right away. With a great business card design, your information becomes a little piece of art people carry with them- and they always have your name.
Your card should be as unique as you and your business are. Try to use vibrant colors that compliment your logo, typography that has personality, and always remember to include information you want people to remember, i.e. contact name, phone number, website, email, etc. Don’t forget you can use the backside of the card. Again, how many business cards do you have stuffed somewhere that only utilized one side? You are dealing with prime real estate here so make the most of it. Fold – over business cards are unique and provide a lot of space for information.
Paper weight can play a huge factor in your good first impression quest. You wouldn’t want your colorful, vibrant, awesome new business card printed on the thinnest paper so it wobbles in the slightest breeze. It would be like a limp handshake! You want nice, thicker stock that has weight to it (10pt, 14pt, or 16pt Cover Stock). Coatings can make great impressions too. Shiny, glossy coatings (UV Gloss) are slick to the touch and help protect your card. Soft, matte finishes (AQ Matte) add
a touch of sophistication & luxury. You will want to consider coatings based on how your business card will be used. Maybe one side of your business card is to be written on, say for appointments or notes. You wouldn’t want gloss coating on that side because it is difficult to write on. Uncoated or matte finishes (Uncoated or AQ Matte) would be ideal for writing on. Coating options are abundant- one side glossy, one side matte. One side matte, one side uncoated and so on.
Make sure you order plenty of cards. Send them out with your invoices, ask other businesses if you can leave your cards there, and hand them out like candy. Networking is a great way to get your name out there, and your newly designed, vibrant, artful business card is sure to make a lasting first impression.
Thanks For Reading!
Jeide Designs
