One thing that is often overlooked about business cards is the professionalism that they convey. Business cards have been around for a long time, and are highly respected amongst business people – handing out a business card lets people know that you’re serious.
In today’s post, we’ll be chatting about the 10 benefits of business cards and why they are still relevant in a digital world.
1. Affordable promotion
The first benefit of using business cards is their affordability. When compared to other advertising options such as billboards or a digital marketing campaign, business cards are an extremely inexpensive option.
2. Perfect for events
If you regularly attend networking events or trade shows, then a business card is going to be extremely beneficial.
You don’t want people to like and appreciate your work, but then forget what your brand was called when they get home.
Placing a business card stack on your table is a great way to ensure that anyone who needs your contact information can get it with ease.
3. Tangible
In the digitised world that we live in, a tangible object like a business card still holds a lot of value.
Bulk emails and SMS marketing definitely have their place, but sometimes it’s nice to have a well-designed business card that you can actually pick up.
A business card serves as a physical reminder about your business and is much more likely to leave a memorable impression than something on a screen.
4. Easy Distribution
Another advantage of a business card is that it is very easy to distribute.
You can give them out in person, leave them in coffee shops, or even display them on a public wall. Business cards allow you to spread the word about your business with ease.
In this business world, it’s standard procedure to trade business cards with new contacts after you meet them. This is a fantastic way to network, especially for a small business.
5. Getting your email correct
In South Africa, we have a huge variety of first and last names. These can be tricky to remember or know how to spell correctly.
The best way to ensure your new contact will be sending you an email ‘as promised’ will be to give that person your business card that no only contains your email address, but your cell number as well.
Giving out a card is the best way to ensure that no one is going to forget your key information.
6. Small and convenient
Taking a card is never a burden for a potential client – they don’t have to carry anything heavy around and can slip it into their wallet comfortably.
There’s also something strangely satisfying and rewarding about the size of a business card.
7. Gives a visual aid to remember your business
As humans, we often remember things better when we have visual aids to assist us. A business card does this perfectly, linking your contact details with attractive, eye-catching branding.
This is one of the reasons why the design of your business card is so important.
8. Doesn’t Expire
Unlike other advertising material, business cards don’t expire. If you were to pay for online advertising, then your ads might be up for a few days before being removed.
Whereas a business card can hang in a wallet or on your desk or notice board for a very long time.
9. Very versatile
A theme that runs throughout all of these benefits is versatility. A business card is suitable for a wide variety of situations, and nearly any business could get something out of a card. You also have the freedom to include any and all the information that you want on each card.
Some clever company owners have even printed QR codes on their cards that link to an introductory video on their business website.
10. Proven success rate
Business cards have been used for decades and have always proven themselves to be valuable assets. Their success hasn’t been hindered by the digital age, and they are still one of the best tools for lead generation.
In summary, a business card lets people know exactly what your company is all about.
A great card will accurately convey your business’s values and areas of expertise, whilst at the same time including the most important information that new customers will need.
Do you want us to design business cards for you?
Email Sandy@udezine.co.za to place an order. Alternatively, Click here to go to our contact page to order.
FAQs
Are business cards really worth it?
There are lots of fantastic reasons to invest in some branded cards. They give your brand a professional feel, help potential clients remember your details, and are extremely convenient. Most importantly, they are very affordable, especially when compared to other marketing and advertising campaigns.
In our opinion, business cards are absolutely worth it. You’ll struggle to find anything else that offers this many advantages for a similar cost.
Are business cards a good marketing tool to help expand brand awareness?
Definitely. Business cards are perfect for handing out at events and exhibitions to potential new clients. People are much more likely to keep your services in mind if they have a business card stuck on their fridge or in their wallet.
In a digital age where nearly everything is virtual, being able to give someone a tangible object can be a big advantage. Even though business cards have been around for a long time, it doesn’t mean that they’re not great marketing tools.
Should I design my own cards?
This question comes up a lot. We all have an idea of what needs to be on a business card – so, yes, you can design your own card.
But when it comes to actually mocking up the design using a design programme like Adobe Illustrator will be more advantageous than Microsoft’s Word.
Why?
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- These design programmes create files for the printer that is in the correct dimensions for finishing aka cutting.
- The files are generally high resolution so the print will be clean and crisp – giving them a professional look.
- The designer knows the best font sizes to use to display the info on the card.
- A good designer will know how to lay out the information and use imagery/art to create an eye-catching design.
Are there any disadvantages to business cards?
The main drawback is that you must physically meet someone in order to give them a card. That said, business cards give a much more personal touch than bulk emails.
Business cards have a much higher conversion rate as a result.
The best way to use business cards is to combine them with a comprehensive branding strategy. This will diversify your methods to attract clients and most likely lead to more sales.