How to Make Business Cards

Table Of Contents

• Benefits of a Business Card
• Must-Have Elements for Your Business Card
• Pros/Cons of Creating Business Cards DIY or with a Designer
• How to Make Business Cards Using LOGO.com
• Best Practices When Making Your Business Cards
• 10 Business Card Design Tips
• Q&A: How to Promote Your Business Cards
• Make Your Business Cards Today

Even in a world full of smartphones, business cards continue to be an important way to promote your business. Sometimes, it’s these personal touches of making business cards that set businesses apart and add a personal touch that technology just can’t match. For some businesses, these moments are where you can win clients and spread your word of mouth with potential customers. In this article, we go through how to make business cards and the must-have elements.

Benefits of a Business Card

Picture this: At a bustling event, a couple seeks a wedding photographer. You realize you're the perfect fit but lack a business card. Without one, you hurriedly jot down details on scrap paper.

Now, Imagine the same scene with your polished business card in hand. As you present it, the couple is drawn to the elegant design and captivating visuals, leaving a lasting impression of your professional photography business.

As a small business owner, think of your business card as a mini billboard for your business. It's your first step in making an impression in the business world and connecting with new faces.

Let’s take a look at three key benefits of keeping business cards on hand:

1. Boosts Your Professional Image and Build Relationships

A well-crafted business card boosts your credibility and professionalism. It shows you care about the little things and present yourself in a polished way, leaving a positive impression on clients and contacts. This professional image helps build trust in your skills and services, creating a strong starting point for building lasting business relationships.

When you exchange business cards with someone, it adds a friendly and memorable aspect to your connection.

2. Easily Exchange Contact Information

Business cards are handy tools for sharing contact information at events, meetings, or even unexpected opportunities. While almost everyone has a smartphone these days, not everyone wants to take the time to pull it out and type in their contact information. Having a business card ready to hand out quickly is a perfect and professional way to exchange details about your business.

Business cards are easy to take with you wherever you go, so you always have important contact information available for new connections. Whether you're at a meeting or a networking event, having business cards handy lets you share your details quickly and shows that you're organized and ready for business.

3. Promote Your Business and Showcase its Personality

Think of business cards as pocket-sized advertisements for your business. These cards not only promote your business in a professional manner but also reflect your business's personality and unique characteristics.

Just like you have your own unique personality that makes you who you are, a business has its own characteristics, values, and image that make it stand out and be remembered. The elements on your business card—your logo, colors, and fonts — need to be consistent with other marketing materials and reflect your business’s personality.

Making an impression is everything and a designed business card is your secret weapon for standing out, and winning customers over your competitors.

Must-Have Elements for Your Business Card

As a small business owner, creating a standout business card is an important step in showing off your business and connecting with potential customers.

Let's break it down into bite-sized pieces, focusing on what to include on your card and some handy design tips to make sure your business card doesn't blend into the background.

Important Elements to Put on Your Card

Your Logo: This little symbol is a big deal. It's like your business's flag, so put it where it's easy to see. It should be big enough to notice but not so big that it takes over.

Business Name: Make it front and center. Choose a clear, easy-to-read font so there's no guesswork involved in who you are.

Your Name: This adds a personal touch, turning a simple exchange into the start of a potential relationship. Plus, it’s nice for people to know who they're chatting with.

Contact Info: Include your phone number, email, and, if you have a brick-and-mortar location, the address. You want to make it as easy as possible for potential customers to find you.

Website URL: Encourage potential customers and new contacts to dive deeper into what you do with a quick nudge to check out your website.

Social Media: If you're all about that social life, including symbols of your favorite platforms can invite further engagement. Just stick to icons to keep things neat.

Design Tips to Keep in Mind

Keep it Simple: A crowded business card is a no-go. Stick to the essentials for a sleek look that's easy to skim.

Color Choices: Pick colors that speak true to your business's vibe, but also make sure there’s enough contrast so everything's easy on the eyes and simple to read.

Go for Quality: The feel of your card matters. A sturdy card suggests a sturdy business.

Show Off Your Style: Your card should scream "you." From the fonts to the layout, let your business personality shine through.

Designing your business cards with these elements and tips in mind will not only help you make a memorable impression but also create a strong connection with potential customers.

Need a little help? Take a look at a few examples of ready-to-print business card templates with all the above elements included.

When you upgrade to be a LOGO Pro subscriber, you’ll have access to over 40 business card templates, making it super easy to find the one that’s perfect for you.

Pros/Cons of Creating Business Cards DIY or with a Designer

When it comes to creating business cards, small business owners face the choice of doing it themselves or hiring a professional. Let's break down what each option offers:

Making Business Cards Yourself

Pros

Saves Money: You can cut costs by using design tools or business card templates you find online at a cheaper price.

You're in Charge: You get to make all the design choices, adjusting everything until your business card is just how you want it.

Quick Updates: Need to change your phone number or tweak the design? You can do it on the spot — no waiting required.

Pride in Your Work: There's something special about crafting your own design that truly represents your business.

Cons

Takes Time: If you're not already a design whiz, learning as you go can eat up hours you might not have to spare.

Might Not Look as Sharp: Without professional design experience, your cards may not look quite as slick or polished.

Design Skills Limitations: Your final design is bound by your own design ability and the features of the design software you choose.

Learning how to make business cards yourself will help you save money if you’re on a tighter marketing budget. Don’t let the “Con” list scare you away, LOGO.com’s Business Card design tool is an easy way to make business cards from the comfort of your home.

The customizable elements and easy-to-use features will make you forget you were a newbie to designing business cards.

Hiring a Professional Designer

Pros

Looks Great: A professional designer knows how to make business cards look top-notch, which can really help your business stand out.

Consistent Business Image: They can match your business cards to the look and feel of your whole business, keeping everything nice and cohesive.

Saves You Time: Letting a pro handle the design means you can focus on other business matters.

Cons

Costs More: Quality design work comes with a price tag, which might be a bit much if your budget is tight.

Possible Miscommunications: It can sometimes take a few tries to get your designer to see your vision, which can delay the final product.

Waiting on Revisions: If your designer is juggling multiple clients, you might find yourself waiting a while for your finished business cards, especially if you want changes made.

Deciding whether to DIY or hire a designer for your business cards boils down to what you value more: saving money and having direct control over the design or saving time and getting a polished, professional look.

How to Make Business Cards Using LOGO.com

With LOGO.com, you can learn how to make business cards that come customized with your logo, colors, and fonts, saving you the time and effort of designing from scratch. Start with a template, make any tweaks you like, and within minutes, have professional-looking business cards ready to go.

Our easy-to-use business card templates make it simple to create eye-catching designs, even if you're not a design pro. We offer a wide range of expertly crafted templates covering various styles, ensuring there's something for every type of business.

Here's a quick guide to crafting your personalized business card with LOGO.com:

1. Log into your dashboard
2. Navigate to the left-hand menu and click on "Business Cards"

You'll have two options here – either choose a template or unleash your creativity by crafting a design from scratch.

If you filled in your Brand Details from day one, you'll find these templates already tailored to your basic information.

Choosing a template will transition you to Stitch – our easy-to-use design tool.

Here, you can modify the text, colors, and elements of your business card. Select the element you wish to customize, and watch the corresponding editing options in the top bar.

On your left-hand menu, you’ll see:

Elements: This section includes shapes, photos, and masks to incorporate into your design. Click 'See more' to explore all available options.

Brand Assets: Your logo and font files reside here. If you prefer a different version of your logo, you can select it from this menu.

Text: You can add custom text, such as a website link or a tagline, by typing it in the box and clicking 'Add.' The text will instantly integrate into your business card design.

Uploads: If you want to include your own images or graphics, utilize the uploads feature.

After you’ve made all the edits and are satisfied with your design, click 'Save' at the top.

Your design is now stored on your dashboard under ‘My saved projects’ for future edits.

If you're ready to print the cards, click 'Download' in the top-right corner and select the preferred file format – PNG, JPEG, GIF, WebP, or PDF.

Once you have the file, you can take it to your closest print shop and get your business cards printed, as LOGO.com does not offer printing services.

By following these steps, you can quickly create business cards that are memorable and impactful representations of your business.

Best Practices When Making Your Business Cards

Your business card is often the first glimpse someone gets into what your business stands for, and you want it to leave a lasting impression. Your business card design should be consistent with the colors and fonts you have already used.

If you’re just starting out and haven’t decided on colors or fonts, don’t worry! We’ve put together a few tips to help you get started.

Tips for Choosing Colors When You’re Just Starting Out

If you're still figuring out your business colors, picking the right colors for your business card can still make a big difference.

Start by looking at the colors other businesses in your industry are using. While your main goal is to stand out, looking at what’s common could guide you in your color choices.

If you can’t decide which colors to use, beginning with neutral colors (like grays, whites, or blacks) and adding a pop of brighter colors can be a safe and stylish move. It gives you room to grow your business without being locked into a color scheme.

Colors play with our feelings and thoughts in surprising ways and can send different messages. Think about the feelings you want people to have about your business.

For instance:

• Blue: It’s all about trust and dependability. Perfect for businesses that want people to know they can count on them, like banks or legal firms.

• Red: This color grabs attention and is full of energy. It’s a winner for businesses that thrive on activity, such as fitness gyms.

• Green: Green is the go-to color for growth and harmony. It’s ideal for health-focused companies or those with an environmental mission.

• Yellow: Yellow is perfect for businesses that want to spread happiness and creativity, such as childcare services or event planners.

• Pink: Symbolizes romance, playfulness, and charm, making it a great choice for businesses in the beauty, fashion, or wellness industries.

Your business card is a small but mighty tool for showing off your business. If you’re just starting up or looking to give your design a fresh spin, matching your business card to your business identity is key to making a lasting impression.

Choosing Fonts That Speak Volumes

When you make business cards and are in the process of picking fonts, keep in mind that the font style you choose says a lot about your business's personality and look. Even if you haven't set specific fonts for your business yet, a smart font decision can really help show off your business's identity in a powerful way.

Your font choice should also reflect the tone of your business. Below are two fonts to consider:

• Serif Font: If you're going for a formal and professional vibe
• Sans-Serif Font: A more relaxed and contemporary feel

The most important thing to remember is that the font you choose must be easy to read. While frilly and cursive fonts are pretty, they can be hard to read, which may make potential customers think twice about contacting you.

Designs That Connect with Your Customers

The best design for your business card is one that truly connects with your dream customers.

Here are a few design styles to consider:

Clean and Modern

This minimalist style appeals to those who prefer a simple and modern look. This style is ideal for young professionals and tech-savvy individuals who appreciate clean designs that reflect professionalism.

Textured and Detailed

Adding texture and intricate details can attract customers who are looking for luxury or personalized services. It gives a sense of sophistication, making your business card stand out as a symbol of exclusivity and high-quality offerings.

Creative and Visual

Incorporating unique illustrations and vibrant colors can captivate individuals with an artistic flair. This design style showcases your creativity and innovation, appealing to those who value originality and visual appeal.

A well-thought-out business card is your chance to make a memorable introduction. By carefully choosing your card’s colors, fonts, and design with your business and customers in mind, you’re not just giving out your contact details — you’re making a mini-pitch for your business that people will remember long after you’ve met. So take this opportunity to shine and leave a lasting impression that opens doors to new connections and possibilities.

10 Business Card Design Tips

As a small business owner, crafting an impactful business card design is a key aspect of your marketing strategy. Here are ten practical tips to keep in mind when designing business cards to make a lasting impression:

1. Keep It Clean and Clear

Choose a clean and straightforward design to ensure that your card is easy to read and understand quickly. Clarity is essential for making a memorable impression.

2. Highlight Key Contact Information

Make sure to clearly display vital details like your name, website, and email address on your business card. This makes it convenient for potential customers to reach out to you.

3. Choose Readable Fonts

Select fonts that are clear and easy to read to enhance the overall readability of your card. Avoid overly complex or decorative styles that may hinder communication.

4. Embrace White Space

Include ample white space in your design to avoid overcrowding and maintain a polished and professional appearance. White space helps key information stand out.

5. Stay True to Your Business

Ensure that your business card design reflects your colors, logo, and visual identity. Consistent branding across all materials helps reinforce business recognition.

6. Utilize Social Media Icons

If relevant to your business, add your social media icons and handles on the card to encourage customers to connect with you online. This can enhance your digital presence and engagement.

7. Use Both Sides Wisely

Make the most of the space on your card by effectively utilizing both sides. This allows you to provide additional information and create a more engaging card.

8. Invest in Quality Printing

Opt for high-quality printing to ensure that the colors are vibrant and the text is sharp. A well-printed card conveys professionalism and attention to detail.

9. Add a Unique Element

Consider incorporating a unique element, such as a memorable tagline, to make your card stand out and leave a lasting impression on recipients.

10. Proofread Thoroughly

Before finalizing your design, carefully proofread the content for any errors or typos. A well-proofread card demonstrates your commitment to excellence and professionalism.

By following these practical tips, you can create a business card that effectively represents your business, captures attention, and leaves a positive impact on potential customers.

Q&A: How to Promote Your Business Cards

Q: How do I promote my business cards to attract potential customers?

To reach potential customers, try these strategies:

• Hand out business cards at local events, trade shows, and community gatherings.
• Leave them at local businesses or other high-traffic spots.
• Include them in mail campaigns or with product shipments to extend your reach.

Q: How can I introduce my business card in a networking setting without coming off as too pushy?

When networking, smoothly introduce your card by:

• Waiting for a natural opportunity to exchange business cards.
• Offering your card as a way to continue the conversation.
• Adding a personal touch or a brief comment to make the exchange more engaging.

Q: How can I integrate my business cards into other marketing materials?

Incorporating your business cards into your overall marketing strategy by:

• Ensuring your cards match your website, social media, and other materials for consistency.
• Using your cards in ads, presentations, and promotions to reinforce your business offering and messaging.
• Making sure your business cards reflect your business's identity across all marketing channels for a unified experience.

Make Your Business Cards Today

The trusty business card remains a powerful tool for small business owners to make connections and leave a memorable mark. By focusing on the essential design elements detailed in this article, handing them out strategically, and incorporating them into your marketing, they can showcase your business and help you build customer relationships.

With the help of LOGO.com business card maker, you can create a business card in a flash. Our easy-to-customize templates let you personalize your card to perfectly match your business and impress everyone you meet. Get started today!