If someone were to pick up your printed business card without the benefit of meeting you, will the card convey the right message about you and your company? Does the card itself make a lasting impression? That business card in your pocket says more about you than you may like to think. In fact, business cards can be either your best or worst salesperson.
Printed Business cards are still important in the digital age and do help the reader form an opinion about the business. Cards are also an effective marketing tool and a way to spread the word about your products or services. Business cards are a form of advertising and should be treated as such.
So what is important to have on a card? 
The Basics include: Your Name, Company Name, Company Logo, Tag line or Motto, Address, Telephone Number(s), E-mail Address and Website. Some businesses also include a QR code if there is enough room.
The standard size business card is only 3.5 x 2” and must contain all of the contact information in a way that is easy to read but not cluttered. Anyone can put their name and address on a plain white sheet of paper but what does that say about your business? A plain card with few colors, a poorly designed logo and a phone number tells the reader that the business is old-fashioned, uncaring and lacks attention to detail. It is almost like the card says... “I may get the job done, but don’t expect much more.”
When designing the card, consider these key elements and how you can use them to convey the message you want potential customers to see:
• Color – each color has a meaning. For example; Dark blue is professional, Red is innovative, Yellow is happy. Make sure the colors you choose reflect your business.
• Paper – the quality of the paper stock is important for “hand-feel.” If the paper is thin, it will tell a reader that your business likes to cut corners and save money. Choose a quality stock whether glossy or matte, textured or satin.
• Typography – each font provides a different “voice” so choose wisely. The font should be easy to read but search the various styles to find one that will speak the best for your business.
• Layout – this is often the most difficult part card design to master. The layout should be clean, not crowded and have a good visual flow that helps define your company.
When you have the right design, the next step is to bring it to the right printer so that you get a quality print job. Conquest Graphics provides high-quality commercial printing at a very low price. You can order your cards on-line and have the printed and shipped to you in time for your grand opening or that next convention. If you have any questions about the printing, feel free to call their customer service hotline for help. Remember, your business card is more than just a simple piece of paper. Be smart and spend the time designing a card that sends the right message.