The Future of Business Cards

Issue: March 2010 by in Inside The Magazine, Technology

In a digital world, it’s safe to say that times are changing. What does that mean for the future of business cards? Will they simply fade away? Don’t relinquish that Rolodex just yet. The truth is, at least for now, business cards aren’t going anywhere. Digital forms of media might be slowly taking over our lives, but the best bet is to adopt these new trends in addition to your business cards instead of as a replacement.

In fact, there are still many advantages to owning a physical card—professional appeal, name branding and easy distribution. Without one, how else would you enter a free contest at a restaurant? So, before surrendering your business card, consider revamping it. Most companies would admit to at least needing a business card makeover.

5 Quick Tips for Revamping Your Business Card:

  1. Update your information. Make sure all of the information on your card is up-to-date and relevant. Also include new forms of social media like Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter, which shows that your company is current and fresh.
  2. Try a new size or shape. Business cards are veering further from the traditional rectangle—make your card stand out by using a new shape or a special die cut. For example, Moo Mini Cards are known for their unique form, coming in at half the size of the traditional business card. (http://us.moo.com/en/)
  3. Use both sides. Take full advantage of your card by using both the back and front. Consider including pictures of your products or showcasing a larger image of your logo to make your card more memorable.
  4. Pay attention to detail. Use color, emboss logos, invest in high-quality cardstock or even add foil accents to show your customers that you care. Go the extra mile.
  5. Use non-traditional materials. Make something practical out of your cards. A floss holder, map or keychain are all out-of-the-box ideas that can almost guarantee your card will be used and, most importantly, seen.

Although a revamped business card may seem like all you need, it would also be helpful to start investing in digital forms of business cards, as they will be valuable in the future. Having two forms of business cards gives customers a choice of how they view, collect and keep track of your information. Think of virtual and physical business cards as a package; both go hand-in-hand.

Consider these additional options:

Application: iPhone “Bump” Application

Available as a free download on iTunes, this application allows iPhone and Android users to transfer information via their cell phones. Simply “bumping” phones allows users a quick transfer of contact information. The application uses location-based technology and WiFi to exchange the information and allows users to choose what contact information is given, such as phone number, e-mail, mailing address and even photos.

Device: Poken

A poken is a small keychain-like device that uses Near Field Communication technology to exchange online social networking information. Similar to the iPhone “Bump,” the poken offers a quick exchange by touching pokens together. A green light signals a complete transfer as you continue to collect contacts, uploading them through your computer’s USB port at your own discretion.

The body of the poken mirrors a typical USB and is stamped with the brand’s symbolic four-fingered hand. The pokenPULSE offers a clean and sleek shape while the pokenSPARK comes in a variety of shapes, ranging from ninjas to zoo animals. They can be purchased individually or in 12-packs. For more information visit www.poken.com.

Online: card.ly

Card.ly is one of many websites that allow employees to create personalized virtual business cards. The great thing about this site in particular is that it not only allows you to customize your card with skins and special features, but it also allows you to pick and choose between a variety of social networks to display. The site integrates popular networks like LinkedIn, Yelp, Twitter, Flickr, Facebook, Blogger, YouTube, WordPress and Tumblr, among many others.

In addition, the website has plug-in support, real-time streams and secure contact forms. Sign up is quick and easy and the site even offers a demo account to make for an effortless creation process. Upon completion, you will receive a personalized URL for easy sharing. The site is free, but premium rates offer more options for $2.99 per month or $24.99 for an annual subscription. For more information, visit http://card.ly/.

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