Let’s talk about business cards for a moment.
By today's definition, the purpose of a business card is to quickly share your contact information with a potential client or partner. Have you ever wondered where they came from?
Believe it or not, business cards did not originate in business at all. Most historians believe their roots are in 15th century China. The elite and royal exchanged cards which had the purpose of announcing a visit and the reason for the visit. Well-to-do houses had dishes specifically to hold these “calling cards.”
The exchange of this card is still a very highly valued business practice in some countries. Japan in particular has very clear rules of business card etiquette, and using proper etiquette is an important part of international business.
By the middle of the 17th Century, these cards had reached the European elite. They were the size of a modern-day playing card and were engraved, embossed and frequently included gold elements. Very specific etiquette surrounded the usage of these cards and they were used for all manner of social interactions - from business dealings to dating.
At the end of the 18th century, addresses were not commonplace which presented a challenge for people to find businesses. Thus “trade cards” began to be used. A trade card was typically printed on both sides. One side contained promotional information and the other side a map to find the business.
By the 1980s, these cards had gained so much popularity due to the accelerated growth in the global economy. However, now people needed a way to introduce both themselves and their business. This led to the business card.
Business cards of today still have many values. What started out as a way to inform of a visitor’s arrival has grown into conveying business legitimacy, brand recognition, ease of networking practices and setting you apart from your competition.
Your audience will often look for ways to legitimize your business. By offering a 3.5” x 2” card with details of who you are, where you are located, how to contact you, and what your services are, provides a form of validation. Your card should convey your brand, as it could arguably be considered the face of your business.
Business cards are usually one of the first marketing tools your potential clients or partners engage with. Here are some ways in which we can take your average business card to the next level.
Material
Most business cards are printed on glossy or uncoated stocks. Elevated options include:
- Textured
- Metallic
- Colored
- Plastic
- Multi-Layer - Double-thick or even three-ply
Size & Shape
By altering the “standard” size, this small detail can achieve a lasting impact. Consider the following options:
- 2.5” or 3” Square
- European size (3.346” x 2.165”)
- Die cut into a specific shape (House, half circle- you name it!)
- Round Corners
Finishes
Embellishments are equivalent to the cherry on top of an ice-cream sundae. Have you thought about:
- Gloss UV Coating
- Embossing or Debossing
- Foil Stamping
- Thermography or Engraving
- Colored Edges
- Laser Engraving
- Laminating
Sky’s the limit
With all of these options, your card will definitely leave the impression you are looking for.
When you’re ready, we’re here to help!
Give us a shout and we’ll walk you through the process from conception to completion.