The world may be going digital, but that doesn’t mean that the dead tree edition of marketing is gone. Instead of vanishing (like many predicted just five years ago), print has been thriving in this new environment. Business cards are especially thriving, since handing someone a card remains easier than trying to match up programs or remember someone’s name to add them on social media.
It’s this convenience that’s kept them relevant. Commercials for business-card replacement apps show paradises where a businessperson can simply walk around a networking event and bump phones to exchange contact info, but that nirvana is far from reality. In truth, it’s awkward to ask if someone has the same program, and even more awkward to actually bump phones with someone. Do you go with a flourish? What if you knock it out of their hand? Whether you’re a seasoned professional meeting with a client or a novice college students looking for that first job, it’s best to just avoid that scenario by hitting up a printing service to get business cards for you and your company.
So—business cards have stayed relevant, because they’re still the most convenient option. But, how have they changed to keep up with the times?
Personal Sites:
The savviest of employees are using their personal blogs to bolster their reputation and perceived expertise in their field, which can only make your business look better. Reward this level of dedication by including approved personal sites on their business cards.
Social Media Links:
Exchanging Twitter handles is almost as necessary as exchanging emails nowadays. Though many employees treat their Facebook pages as friends/families only, they’re often more open with Twitter. It’s entirely proper to give them an option on what to include.
QR Codes:
These handy links take smartphone users straight to a specific landing page. It could be useful for real estate agents or salespeople in general. Giving each salesperson their own landing page will make their in-person efforts more worthwhile.
Pictures:
We’ve all gotten spoiled by profile pictures. It’s easier to remember someone’s face than their name, so pictures are highly valuable for business cards. The photo will be a reminder of where they met your employee and what their impression of them was.
These steps can all propel you into the Information Age and beyond. But, to add a little extra spice to your cards, why not be even more original? Adding a tip calculator to the back, or even a tiny ruler, can mean the card stays in someone’s wallet far longer than a traditional card with just a name and contact info.
Since business cards are considered traditional, do something a little quirkier if you want to stand out amongst tech startups, Etsy shops or design industries. Think about using a unique material such as vinyl, leather, wood or acrylic. Anything that relates to you or makes your business stand out is fair game. As long as it serves the purpose of quickly communicating your employees’ contact info, it’s fair game.
Business cards are evolving, but the basic idea has stayed the same. They’ll be used as long as we have personal information to share.