While standard business cards might be “foolproof,” cheap, and quick to put together, it’s not memorable or interesting to look at. It’s a lasting impression of your business that people take with them. If you want that impression to be strong and positive, you’ll need to be more creative with your design.

First Impressions Matter

You already know it’s worthwhile to invest in your branding. But branding is more than the colors and logos that hint at your personality. It sets an expectation around your work. Is it all business, focusing on your information without any frills or fuss? Is it bold and luxurious, making the person holding your card feel like they’ve been given a fancy gift? How people feel about your business card can reflect how they’ll feel about buying your services or products. 

If you’re an artist or a designer, your business cards are an opportunity to showcase your creative prowess. You might think of it as a tiny piece from your portfolio. In fact, someone excited to take your card to look at your work later might be disappointed if they receive a plain white card with black text.

Stand Out from the Crowd

Remember once someone has your card, it likely won’t be kept by itself. It goes wherever they keep all their business cards. You want your card to stand out from the rest and catch the eye. How can you do that, besides using bright colors? There are unconventional card shapes, materials with different textures, and even interactive elements. Did you know that gold foil business cards exist? If your business is a luxury business (such as luxury perfume, candles, interior design, etc), then this is perfect for the brand’s personality. 

How about a card that folds into a small piece of art? Or one with a QR code that leads to a personalized video message? These little touches can make a huge difference in how you’re remembered.

It Can Be a Great Conversation Starter

A strong business card design can be a great icebreaker. Instead of grabbing your card and walking off without engaging, a strong card can inspire people to stick around and chat with you. It might start off as a compliment, but you can use that as an opening to make a connection with your potential new client or customer. While finding out more about a person’s needs and how your work might be a good fit for them, you can give them the opportunity to ask more about you. You don’t have to make a hard sell and pressure them into making a purchase. All you need to do is make a good impression.

Showcase Your Creativity

Your business card is a canvas to give people a taste of your creative talents – be it design, photography, marketing, or even baking. For example, if you’re a photographer, why not use one of your stunning photos as the backdrop of your card? If you’re a graphic designer, let your card be a mini portfolio of your design skills. It’s a tangible way to demonstrate your capabilities.

And if you have a hard time choosing just one piece from your portfolio to feature on your cards, why not make a few different versions? If people can get a different artwork on each card, they’ll want to pick up the whole collection and keep them safe. They might even end up on display instead of tossed in a drawer with standard, boring cards.