Networking with business cards has been around since the 17th century. Formerly known as visiting cards, business cards were used by European aristocrats to announce their arrival when visiting fellow noblemen.
Today, the concept of business card etiquette is much the same, though business card design is a world apart. Gone are the coats of arms of old. Now, personalized business cards are far more personal and intentional.
If you are searching for business card inspiration, look to the latest trends. What trends are we talking about? Keep reading this guide for the top ways professionals are designing and branding their business cards in 2023.
Mini Business Cards
New business card dimensions are taking over. Mini business cards - also called half-size, skinny, or micro cards - measure a negligible 3.5 inches by 1.5 inches.
Even though these cards offer less space, they pack an even bigger punch than traditional personalized business cards. Your card will stand out in recipients' minds, offering the perfect opportunity to differentiate yourself or your brand.
And just because there is less room to play does not mean your card has to be boring. If you don't have enough room for more creative elements on the front, you can utilize another trend on our list and add designs to the backside.
Digital Business Cards
One of the biggest business card trends right now is going digital. Digital business cards are stored online, allowing recipients to download or share them with ease.
Better yet, you do not even have to meet someone in person to give out your digital business card. Much networking is done online today. And this trend is perfectly suited to brands and professionals who've gone digital, too.
The best part about this trend? It makes business card marketing and networking easier than ever before. You can include a digital card on your website where people you've never even met before can access it and connect.
Eco-Friendly Business Cards
88% of business cards get thrown away within a week of receiving them. Creating attention-grabbing designs can help reduce this rate. But still, paper cards create a lot of waste.
Digital business cards are a more eco-friendly option. But what if you want to save the environment and hand out physical business cards at the same time? If this is a concern for you, focus on choosing the right materials.
Printing companies offer a wide range of material options. Eco-conscious shoppers can use recycled paper or plastic, sustainably sourced wood, or even lightweight metal to hold their business or brand information.
Double-Sided Business Cards
Have a lot to say about your brand or yourself on your business card? If so, this next trend may be just what you need to express yourself. Double-sided business cards offer twice the space as traditional business cards.
Plus, any graphic design experts reading this guide will know how important white space is. White space refers to the empty areas on your card, and it is essential for keeping your card from looking busy or hard to read.
Having extra space allows you to include all those extra details you've always wished would fit on your business card. You'll even have space for a photograph or your brand's logo!
Creative Business Cards
At least 32% of creative professionals are self-employed. Some are freelancers and solopreneurs, while others run their own small businesses. No matter which group you fall into, you need a creative business card to reflect your skills.
Here are some trendy and creative business card ideas to help you design one.
Unique Business Card Shapes
Today, business card templates come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. Say goodbye to that basic rectangle and hello to everything from circles and triangles to stars and hearts.
Creatives can choose from pre-existing die cuts or customize their own shape. Imagine the impact a brush-shaped business card could have on an artist's business or a record-shaped card may project on a musician's brand.
And uniquely shaped cards are not only for creatives. Anyone can get in on this trend. Brands can design their cards in the shape of their logos or the product(s) they sell.
Unexpected Business Card Materials
We've already talked about the rise of one type of unexpected business card medium: eco-friendly material. But this is not the only way to create a totally one-of-a-kind tactile experience when you hand out your business card.
Other unexpected materials to consider include leather, embroidered fabric, or cork. At Alpha Graphics, we also offer magnetic business cards, so recipients can put them on their filing cabinets or fridges and never forget your name.
Tangible Business Card Finishes
When designing business cards, many people spend so much time worrying about looks that they forget about another sensation: touch. The best business card finishing options that make a tactile statement include:
- Matte or gloss finishes
- Embossing or debossing
- Raised or foil-stamped lettering
This is only a sample of the types of finishes you can add to your business card. But make sure you do add one. Unique finishes are all the rage right now, meaning if you don't consider this aspect, you can bet your competitors will.
Meaningful Business Card Colors
Bone, eggshell, and off-white are no longer the popular business card colors. Now, people are turning to business card color psychology to deliver the perfect message.
Want to show recipients they can trust you or your brand to be honest and loyal? If so, go for a blue color. Red is better for showing your action-oriented mindset, while green represents growth, wealth, and security.
You can also include a combination of meaningful colors for a bespoke message. For example, an orange card with gold lettering symbolizes positivity and achievement, while a blue card with silver details confers a high-tech vibe.
Customize Your Business Card Design
These business card design trends can help you customize the perfect networking and marketing tool for you or your brand.
Whether you want a mini, digital, eco-friendly, double-sided, or creative business card, we have you covered. Alpha Graphics can help with business card design, business card printing, business card branding, and more.
Request a quote for your idea and get started with Alpha Graphics today!