How to Create the Ultimate Business Card
Hey guys! Welcome to ShamaTV. Last week I was at South by Southwest, and one of the great things about going to conferences is that you collect a lot of business cards! In my profession I see a lot of business cards as is, so I thought it would be a good idea to do a webisode on what makes a good business card. I just got mine recently made, and I figured I’d share with you guys some of the things I think make a business card stand out, and what you can do to make yours stand out.
One of my first tips is to always use both sides of the card. It’s good real estate, and I know you guys spend money printing them, so I’m always surprised when I flip a card over and there’s nothing on the other side. Use both sides efficiently, and I’ll give you a tip on what to put on the other side if you don’t have an idea yet.
The other thing is to use a good card stock. I have about a 15-point card stock, and I get it from overnightprints.com (I’ll put their address below the video). I really like them! They’re nice and sturdy. Sometimes you get those flimsy little business cards and they get stuck to other cards, or they may fly away, and are easy to lose. The ones I have are good quality business cards.
The other thing I learned from experience is to always make your name your stand-out point. When I first did business cards, I really made the company the big deal. Then I realized you’re business cards are about you. You are connecting with a person. And while they might be representing a business and a brand, you’re still connecting with that person, and you want their business card. So what I did this time with my card, was I really highlighted my name in bold, and made sure that’s what stood out.
On the front of the card, I listed a couple of things that I do: online marketing, WebTV show host, public speaker. I know a lot of you guys out there juggle multiple things, so this is a great little way to bullet point the things you do, and the things you want people to know about yourself. Now, here’s my point of advice on this point, if you do two very different things then I don’t recommend putting them here because “public speaker” and “WebTV show host” go together… that’s OK, there’s nothing wrong with it. But let’s say I also weaved baskets. I wouldn’t want to put on here “WebTV show host, public speaker, and basket weaver.” It just wouldn’t fit together.
Then I have my website addresses: clicktoclient.com and shama.tv. I also have my phone number and e-mail address. I don’t put my mailing address on cards because, for myself and for a lot of people I know, they work virtually or have a PO Box. And if someone really needs your mailing address they’ll e-mail you, so I don’t have my mailing address on my card. Now if you have an office and a suite, and you’re an attorney, for example, and lots of people visit your office then it might make sense to put your address on the card.
Now, the back of the card is something interesting… I offer my free online marketing guide. Most people take a business card, and they’ll e-mail the person, but they might throw it away. This is nice because even through my business cards, I’m doing something to provide a little bit of value. I’m letting people know, “Hey, I have a 28 page online marketing plan on clicktoclient.com, and they can go download it. This is great because it gives my work a little more exposure, and it allows them to get a taste of what we have to offer. And it gives them an online marketing plan!
So always use both sides of your card, and if you guys have interesting business idea tips, I’d love to see them in the comments section!
How to Create the Ultimate Business Card:
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March 26th, 2009 at 5:11 pm
nice to see that you use both sides full color. interesting and good tips on that bigger name instead of company
March 26th, 2009 at 5:13 pm
Great tips for creating a business card !
March 26th, 2009 at 5:15 pm
Nice presentation. Thank you!
March 26th, 2009 at 5:38 pm
Hi Shama!
I like the way you use the back of your business card to promote your expertise but when someone give me his card, I like to take notes on the back (where I meet that person, what we talked about, …)
What do you think about this practice? Could we get the best of both worlds?
March 26th, 2009 at 5:38 pm
Another good show, Shama.
March 26th, 2009 at 6:00 pm
I’ve found great value in using http://ClickToAdd.Me on my business cards. This allows others to find my online profiles and network further with me in these locations as well.
Great advice on keeping similar focus for several roles.
March 26th, 2009 at 6:18 pm
Hi Courtney-
That’s a cool resource! I will check it out. Thanks. = )
March 26th, 2009 at 6:18 pm
Thanks Peter! : ) Means a lot coming from someone who is a pro behind the lens!
March 26th, 2009 at 6:24 pm
Hey David-
Now there is an idea! See, I always follow up with people within a day. So, I have a good memory of what we talked about. I think for someone who does this say on a weekly or monthly basis-the back of the card strategy may make sense. OR-if you save business cards. I don’t save them after connecting online.
March 26th, 2009 at 9:15 pm
Some business cards use color combinations that 10% of American men cannot easily see. Put three guys in a room and there is a 23% chance that one of them will find red font on a black background to be invisible. Ditto for purple on orange.
Light blue font on a white background? No thank you.
An unreadable business card shows poor quality control practices and makes a bad first impression. Color issues are an even bigger problem for web designers whose sites serve as virtual business cards for attracting new customers and driving sales.
March 26th, 2009 at 10:19 pm
Hi Anthony,
Interesting stats! Thanks for sharing.
I am no expert on color-so I will take your word on it.
The text on my cards is in black. The background is light blue. To date-I have never had anyone have a hard time reading the card. If they did, I’d consider changing it. For now, they are working pretty well!
March 26th, 2009 at 10:19 pm
Shama, great presentation. I liked what you said about not putting too much information that conflicts with your main message: YOU and what service/s you are offering. I also liked that you offered a free product that further shares your services with your clientele.
March 26th, 2009 at 10:21 pm
David, Karrine, Ian – Thank you! = ) I hope you will keep visiting the site!
March 26th, 2009 at 10:25 pm
Hi Steve,
Thanks for your comment. Yes, it’s good to keep biz cards streamlined. I often see cards with 4 occupations that have nothing to do with each other. = )
March 26th, 2009 at 10:56 pm
Really like the idea of considering your business card as “real estate” and offering your ezine or free CD. I hadn’t ever considered the color as a consideration. I’ve used Vista print for my business cards and mailings and been satisfied with their quality, pricing, delivery. Good website too.
March 26th, 2009 at 11:02 pm
Dear Shama,
Wonderful advice and warm appealing cards.
I love the idea about giving something away.
I am in the camp of having some space to write about a meeting or follow-up with the card giver.
Although I have a real estate business (agents are very independent and seek to make themselves standout), I struggle to understand how a personal name should stand out so much, unless you are well known and your name within itself reveals your business or reputation. Perhaps coaches and consultants and those who provide such direct services might enhance their name.
However, for many other businesses, I believe card recipients would find it useful to see the business name most prominent. As an example, I just picked up a business card I had nearby, which is from a construction company. I do not know how many Dave’s I have met who do construction, but there are quite a few. In this case, it was easier for me to identify with the company, the service.
March 26th, 2009 at 11:03 pm
Hi Shama,
Thanks for the video. I have been thinking about my business cards and ways to make them stand out even more. Appreciate your tips.
March 27th, 2009 at 7:08 am
Great video!
I remember a while back someone has given me a business card that flips open (kinda like a birthday greeting card, except that its size was of a typical business card).
What is your take on this style?
March 27th, 2009 at 10:04 am
Shama, great video and very helpful. The first person that I heard discuss this issue of business cards was Mari Smith and she was promoting putting your twitter and facebook connections on your card so that you can show folks the way to connect with you.
Now Facebook is her business so it makes sense for her.
I love that you give tidbits like this and the cartoon of your picture is a great piece of branding.
Most of all, I like that you put your offering on the back of the card.
I will be redoing my cards with all your advice in mind.
Thanks for your contribution of value.
Iyabo Asani
http://AuthenticChangeCoach.com
March 27th, 2009 at 11:27 am
Shama, great idea on business card, what is the dimension of your card it looks bigger. I was ready to take my draft to the printer now I am glad I waited so I can use your great tips. I see that some of your commenters can get their picture with their comments on your site, can you share how they do that I don’t see a mechanism.
March 27th, 2009 at 1:39 pm
Sandie,
You need to register on http://www.gravatar.com/ and upload your picture. Gravatar is used by many sites.
March 27th, 2009 at 4:40 pm
Hey Sandie- Gravatar.com – as David suggested.
Thanks David!
March 27th, 2009 at 4:43 pm
Hi Iyabo,
The reason I don’t like my million social networking sites on my card is because it clutters the card. You have to try really hard to keep it clean!
What works for me super well is to list my social sites on my main website. The chances are, someone will visit 1-maybe 2 websites off your card. It’s best to send them to your main website.
March 27th, 2009 at 4:45 pm
Hi Azmat,
Nice to see you here buddy! I think business cards that stand out are great. If the pop-up works: wonderful! Also depends on your business. A whimsical business (toys, education, kids niche), can have more fun with their cards.
March 30th, 2009 at 2:45 am
Hi Shama,
Thanks so much for sharing the information on business cards. Your card looks great! I loved the idea of highlighting your name, instead of your business name. For me, the personal touch builds relationships, trust and credibility. I also liked the inclusion of your free offer.
March 30th, 2009 at 9:04 am
I like it! Thanks for the tips Shama. I love graphic design so this is good info for me.
March 30th, 2009 at 9:36 am
Hi Nancy-
A pleasure. Welcome to the blog!
March 30th, 2009 at 11:43 am
This is a great topic. Business cards are a must for anyone, whether you are employed or not. In fact, I have two sets, one for myself and one for my company.
The thing people really need to start doing these days is pairing up their tangible business card with a virtual business card. There are several services that does this, but the service that people should uses is one that allows for the best possible virtual exchange.
I obviously may be a little bias on this one but the point is still valid.
March 31st, 2009 at 12:30 am
[...] Check networking supplies. Yes, check your stock of cool business cards, pens, and stickers after your event – and before the next one. I can’t tell you how many [...]
March 31st, 2009 at 9:31 am
@David Paccoud:
Here’s a suggestion: I keep some small post-it notes in my business card case. That way I can still jot down details & action items whether the card has room to write on it or not. I came up with the idea when living in Japan, where it’s considered to be VERY rude to write on someone’s business card, especially in front of them. The business card is seen as a representation of the person, as it likely is in other cultures as well. So by carrying sticky notes in my business card case, I reduce the chances of inadvertently offending them, while making sure I don’t let something fall through the cracks either.
To your success,
David B. Wright
Author, Get A Job! Your Guide to Making Successful Career Moves
http://www.getajobbook.com
http://jobs.therecruiterslounge.com
March 31st, 2009 at 11:22 am
Hi David,
GREAT point! Yes, I had heard this before but forgotten about it. I find that I can remember these things if I carry them through the same day-no need for notes. Sticky notes are a good idea. Thanks for sharing.
March 31st, 2009 at 11:24 am
Hi Cutter,
Great point! I see my profiles on social media sites as long business cards, so those are my “virtual” cards. And I agree. Business cards are a must for anyone-employed or looking. I would say ESPECIALLY if looking!
March 31st, 2009 at 11:41 am
@David B. Wright:
This is a good alternative when writing on the back of the card is not possible, whatever the reason. Thanks, for sharing.
@Shama:
If all your contacts on social networks, do you have any backup plan? Although, using several social media is already a pretty good backup plan.
April 2nd, 2009 at 11:25 am
Hello Shama,
I heard about your blog from David Frey’s Newsletter.
I became and instant fan after being on your site for less than 30 seconds.
Thanks for making marketing and social media easy to digest.
I was looking to get some new business cards made for my women’s fitness company as I am now rebranding for a more personal brand.
I went to the NY MAGAZINE bridal event and got some great ideas for business cards.
Make is a great day Shama and can’t wait to hear more from you
April 7th, 2009 at 12:44 pm
Two questions:
What hosting and software do you use for your videos?
What was the name of that business card provider again?
Thanks,
@innovate
http://twitter.com/innovate
April 8th, 2009 at 11:48 am
Hi Braden,
I use Viddler.com to host the videos and Final Cut Pro to edit. Well-my team uses Final Cut Pro to edit.
Business card provider I use: http://www.overnightprints.com/
April 9th, 2009 at 12:01 am
I leave the back of my card blank because often when I hand them out *I* will write something on the back. This way I personalize my card for the person I’m sharing it with. I’m a dog trainer so often I’m writing the name of a book or a website that I think the person will find helpful, or noting the date of an upcoming class or event they might want to attend.
However I might consider printing some image or text on the back that would still leave room for writing.
April 10th, 2009 at 6:38 pm
Hi Stacy,
That’s a pretty neat idea. You may want to consider what I do- which is have a permanent giveaway and direct them to that. Example: “10 ways to train your dog- at any age!”
April 12th, 2009 at 10:47 pm
I shared this with my school’s marketing association!
Thank you for great tips!!
-Shelby
April 17th, 2009 at 12:30 pm
Shama, I have a TON of giveaways on my site. I have a page full of free Training Tips, and the SF Bay Area’s biggest listing of dog-related events, all at http://www.wagntrain.com/
You and Snoopy should check it out!
May 16th, 2009 at 10:11 am
Shama I stumbled upon your page just by doing some searching on social media marketing and I’m certainly a fan at this point. I’d like to touch base with you as I’m thinking about endeavoring to join a company that markets an awesome healthcare drink to people. I’d be an independent distributor of the product and I want to be successful right from the start. I know that having a huge amount of social media connections is key (e.g. on Twitter, Facebook etc etc). Let me know if you can help. FYI. I received your free pdf guide to online marketing and will read through that today.
June 4th, 2009 at 1:23 pm
Great video, its awesome to see people putting themselves out there and promoting great ideas!
June 10th, 2009 at 8:43 am
I really enjoyed this post. I will definitely check back later for more informative posts from you. Thanks!
July 30th, 2009 at 9:01 am
Hey Shama,
This video was excellent but there are other alternatives out there for higher cardstock that are slightly more inexpensive than overnight. Check out http://www.ctmprints.com which has 16pt cardstock and also has the option to print GREEN!
August 4th, 2009 at 9:05 am
I changed my name when I got married, mostly because it was more succinct, and I knew I was going to be shifting my professional identity so the change seemed appropriate. I think you are right about people identifying you with your first name, since that is just what you go by. The whole issue of last names for women is loaded, and it’s difficult to not be making a political statement with your choice in the eyes of many women out there. There are just many women who have flash points about certain issues, and this is one of them.
December 16th, 2009 at 3:10 pm
Business Cards as NOTE CARDS
The only point I can offer is that I have always found that the backside of the business card is where I always make a note of what was discussed, what was offered, and what was my followup for the contact. You CAN NOT do that on a business card that has AD SPACE on the back or which is laminated or covered. There is NO SPACE for the notes and the pen will not write on them. Why I use blank backs and unlamiated finishes on the back of my BIZCARDS.
Fred
Freddallas