Every time I run low on business cards, I get in a dither about it. I usually get them from Vistaprint using one of their designs. This time, though, I’m either designing it myself or having a local designer do it for me. The online services like Vistaprint and 123print are great, but, buying from them, you don’t actually own your design. You can buy their products, but you cannot use their design to print products elsewhere.
The photo shows samples of some of the cards I’ve had in the past. I’m going back to square one with my new card. I’ll use the same color scheme as my website (black, gray, white, red), but I won’t try to copy the design.
What goes on the card:
- Name and/or business name
- Tag line, a few words stating what you do. (I need a new one).
- Photo? Whether you need a photo depends on how you use the card. It’s easier for people who don’t know you well to remember you if give them a photo card. Dealing with people who already know you, a photo is not so important. Since I use mine primarily at conferences, I’ll have a photo.
- Contact information: Most people give phone, e-mail address, mailing address and website URL. I’ll include my cell phone number, website URL, the city-state portion of mailing address, and e-mail address only. Most people don’t need my street address or home phone. If they need to mail me something, they can contact me by cell phone or e-mail.
Where to get cards printed:
- Online service like Vistaprint or 123Print. Remember, they own their design, even after you’ve personalized it.
- Local printing service or office supply store. The design is part of the printing cost. Some designers may sell you the just the design. You can get the Publisher file or PDF, then order printing services from anywhere. You can upload the whole design to Vistaprint to take advantage of specials, but you will still own the design.
Is it time for you to get a new card? Do you have suggestions or comments on the subject of business cards for writers? Comments are welcomed.
Previous Blog4Writers posts on business cards: