Your business card is more than just…well, more than just a business card.  Think of it as a mini-brochure.  Its purpose is to tell who you are and what you do.

First, make sure it looks professional.  Invest a few bucks in a logo design…something that will make your business card look like more than just a flat-stock collection of words that you ran off your computer.  There’s no need to emboss it with raised letters; just give it something to make it stand out.
Some folks like to put their photo on their cards.  I did that for a while.  The problem:  As I got older (and better looking each year, I might add), I kept forgetting to update my photo.  Actually, it worked out well, because people always took a minute to look at the card and ask who that young guy was.  Whatever works, I guess.

Second, make sure you have all contact info — phone, email, website, and anything else.  If you have sterling credentials, see if there is a way to include them.  Just be sure you do not clutter up the look.

Third, take advantage of that wasted space on the back.  I’m a business consultant, so the back of my card has my mission: "Helping small business owners survive, grow and make money."  Below that is my favorite quote by Malcolm Forbes: "If you don’t drive your business, you’ll be driven out of business."

Fourth, carry your cards with you wherever you go, and hand them out like candy at a confectioners’ convention.  Sure, 95% will end up in the trashcan, but that 5% will know how to reach you when they need you.

This post inspired by a contest YGG is hosting along with design/print firm Orange32.

Work hard.  Make money.  Have fun.

–JRIngrisano   
   The Freestyle Entrepreneur

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