You may not realise it, but your business card is one of the most important business tools you can possibly have.

In many instances it is the ‘first impression’ of your business, and it is usually the tool that people reach for to contact you when they require professional services.

A great looking business card is made up of a couple of elements – the overall design, and the quality and finish of the business card itself.
So firstly, lets look at the design….

Your business card design should reflect your existing branding so people easily identify your business card with your business and other marketing you may already have, such as press ads, etc

Your business card design should be easy to read, uncluttered, but yet complete with all the necessary information such as contact details, website address and bullet points outlining your services

Your business card could also have additional information for your customer, such as some lines on the back of the card to write quotes, a location map of your office, or it can be a promotional tool with a discount rate when the person presents your card at the counter.

The design/artwork of your business card must stand out from the crowd so your customers remember you before anyone else!

Business Card printing….

There are many different types of finishes when it comes to business card printing, so how do you choose the one right for you?

1. For affordability, start at the single-sided business card, but make sure you have it printed on a decent stock weight, of at least 300gsm. We recommend around the 400gsm weight so it is less likely to feel flimsy and also doesn’t bend as easily.

2. For something with a little more impact, go for a double sided card with a nice finish – either gloss celloglaze or matt celloglaze. The gloss celloglaze finish offers a nice glossy finish to the cards making them very durable, however if you are looking for class, then the matt celloglaze finish is the way to go! Not only does the smooth flat finish look great, it feels amazing too. You will see people start rubbing it as you hand it to them, which lets you know they will most likely be hanging onto that card for a while!

The celloglaze finishes also add additional weight and body to the business cards, making them appear much stronger than the 400gsm weight they really are, which appears much more professional.

All these business cards are much more affordable these days than you might think, with the printing of 1000 business cards usually leaving decent change out of $100, making your business cards not only a very affordable marketing tool, but a great investment in your business!

If you’re paying more than that, then visit www.Devision.com.au and see what you should be paying!

There are also a few nice touches to finish off your cards, such as rounded corners, embellishments such as raised embosses or UV varnishes which really leave an impression, but can also leave an impression in your wallet to match!

Whatever your business type, you need a business card that works it’s magic for you.

Article by Chris Bourke

Senior Designer and Business Card Design Expert – Devision Design Australia