Business Cards

Q: because I've changed my address and have to have new cards made, what should a business card be like? What size? Is color important? In such a small space, what are the most important pieces of information to include? How can you incorporate an inducement to hold onto the card, and some clue, months later, or why they held onto the card in the first place? Any other issues?

A: Q: ... what should a business card be like? A: it should be a reflection of your business. Q: What size? A: i suppose standard business card size (approx. 2x3"?) is the easiest for people to keep track of ... but i wonder if perhaps an unusually large or odd-shaped card would be more memorable? i once had a friend with a business called "the cabbage patch" and her cards were a tri-fold head of cabbage; of course she *was* a graphic designer ;-) (but the business was a country gift shop). Q: Is color important? A: again, i'd tend to say this should be a reflection of your business. if you work with vintage textiles (as i do), i'd suggest staying away from bright white cards (i generally use a parchment color cardstock). OTOH, if your work is extremely modern, perhaps a rainbow colored card would be more appropriate? Q: In such a small space, what are the most important pieces of information to A: include?

1. business name 2. means of contact -- which, these days, should include fax, e-mail, and URL, in addition to your mailing address. Q: How can you incorporate an inducement to hold onto the card ... A: the best inducement may well be to have magnetized cards! granted, this will add a little expense, but perhaps you could use these special cards for proven customers, and not just everyone; i certainly wouldn't leave these laying out for browsers (or kids!!!) to pick up. Q: ... and some clue, months later, or why they held onto the card in the first place? A: add a line telling what it is you do, i.e., "maker of fine sterling jewelry" ... or whatever!