Tips for designing your own business cards

Business cards are essential for any industry, as they give your customers a way to contact you when they are in need of your product or service. However, if your card isn’t well designed, this business essential could damage your legitimacy and credibility as an individual and as a company. Designing your own cards is a wonderful way to put your own spin on the stationery, but make sure you’re following these tips to make a positive and lasting impression on clients:

Consider color and its impact
The color of your business card should reflect the nature of your company. For instance, if you’re a lawyer, light pink probably wouldn’t come off as too professional. In general, it’s best to stick with neutrals, and let your company’s logo provide some of the bright color. If appropriate, you can use one of your company colors as the background of your card. Play around with a few different options to see which one ends up looking the best.

Know that typography matters
Font can affect the overall look and feel of your business cards just as much as color. Each font has its own personality, so it’s important that you select a typeface that reflects your business and your audience. If you’re in the insurance business, for instance, you probably don’t want to use a fancy script font. Instead, stick to a more bold, straightforward typeface.

Consider experimenting with a few different types of fonts. Chances are, if you’re having trouble reading the typeface, so will your clients.

Place copy appropriately
There are a few design rules that you should keep in mind as you’re creating your business cards. One of those rules is keeping all of the text at least 5 millimeters from the trim edge of the card. This will help the card look balanced and centered, rather than having the text look like it’s falling right off the paper.

Is your information clearly displayed?
When you look at your business card, your name and contact information should jump off the card. This shouldn’t be text that is difficult to locate. However, keep in mind that you don’t want to have too much information presented on your business cards, otherwise, the whole thing can look cluttered and confusing. Instead, opt to print your name, and maybe the two best ways to get in touch with you, like your email address and cellphone​ number.

Include a photo
This isn’t mandatory, but it can make you seem more personable. Your customers will be able to put a face to your name. Think about it: If you and your competitors are handing out business cards at a networking event, clients are going to remember you more clearly thanks to the picture on your card.

If you do opt to put a photo on your card, make sure it’s a professional one. You may want to think about getting a few headshots taken that would be appropriate to use for work.