Your logo and all the other graphic components of your business card are very critical in getting one that will truly work for your business.
However, this does not make the information contained in your card less important.
In fact, they are as important as all the other elements needed to make your card look good.
So, aside from making sure that you have an aesthetically appealing business card that catches the eye, also ensure that it contains the right kind of information.
Here are the vital details that should be included in your business card: Name Think about whether you want your middle name included here or just your middle initial.
If you are a holder of a professional credential or a degree that is applicable to your field of industry, then you have to decide if you will include this with your name or not.
Designation This will help establish your position in your business and will tell your prospects and clients exactly what role you play.
If you are just a consultant, then you might decide not to put a designation under your name.
This is especially if you want the freelance nature of your service to be portrayed as an advantage for your target market.
License Numbers These are regulated by certain industries and should not be forgotten.
If it is not mandatory but will make you more credible to your prospects, then display them in your business card also.
Telephone and Mobile Phone Numbers These numbers are very imperative to be included as these would tell your prospects that they can reach you anytime.
You can even get a toll-free number if you have long-distance business.
If you want to preserve your privacy, then you can withhold your mobile number except to those who have already availed of your services.
This way, you could make your clients feel that they are special to you and are willing to cater to their every need as much as possible.
Facsimile Number If you have a facsimile machine, then include its number on your card.
This is especially if you have a business that usually takes in faxed messages.
Location Never forget to put your location on your card, even if it is just of your home.
This will make people see that you are not just an established business, but also a credible one.
For privacy purposes, then using a PO Box would be the option for you.
However, sign up with a commercial mailbox instead of the government one because you will be provided with a street address and not just the usual PO Box number.
Email Address This provides you a chance for business branding.
However, to do this, do not use a typical email address.
Instead, buy you own domain name which you could utilise for your email.
This does not cost much and setting it up is quite simple.
Having this kind of email address will make your business appear more professional and bigger.
Website or Blog Site Address If you have different sites for both your blog and website, then you should include both in your business card.
These sites are very important for disseminating more information about your site.
Usually prospects would like to learn more about what and who you are before deciding to avail of your services or products and presenting your informative sites to them will definitely help.
Marketing Message or Tagline If your business has a marketing message or a tagline, then including this on your card will reinforce your branding efforts.
This will make your business more memorable, especially if you will place graphic elements on it for added visual attention.
Social Media URLs If you are using social media marketing, then add on the links of your different social media accounts onto your card.
You can have these shortened and placed at the back of your card.
Call to Action There is nothing better in asking your prospects to act immediately than a call to action on your business card.
Set a time limit on this and place the link of where you want your prospects or clients to go.
It may be a link to a free product trial, an excerpt from an eBook or a special discount they need to sign up for.