In the early days of launching and running a business, it’s natural to sweat all the details and decisions in hopes of creating the perfect image for your company. It’s also natural to stop focusing so much on all those little details once the business is off the ground and there are customers to satisfy. Regardless of what stage your business is in, it’s wise to consider what your business cards say about your company – just in case their message isn’t quite in line with yours.

What your business cards say about your company’s financial health

At some point, we all look for ways to cut expenses to improve the bottom line. More often than not, business card costs go under scrutiny. It’s not that business cards are unnecessary expenses, just not always appreciated for the public relations tool they are when used properly. Under-appreciation for their function sometimes leads to cutting costs through the use of inferior printers or do-it-yourself business card printing.

While cutting your expenses can help keep your finances healthy, going to extremes can project the appearance that the company doesn’t care about its image or can’t afford to do so. Clearly, this is not the effect any business owner wants to achieve. Signs your card isn’t sending the financial message you wish to send include:

  • Crooked type
  • Flimsy card stock
  • Perforated or uneven edges
  • Smudged lettering
  • Uneven font coloring

If your business cards have any of these issues, it may be time to reconsider your printing options – especially if your cards have more than one flaw.

What your business cards say about your company’s professionalism

In some industries, clients expect the cookie-cutter business cards they always see, while other industries breed more freedom of creativity in business cards. Striking the right balance between professional and creative can be challenging if you wish to go with something less black and white. Backgrounds, photos, fun fonts and bold colors can reflect in a positive or negative way on your company and your management of it. The trick is to understand the difference.

Questions to ask yourself:

  • Am I trying to evoke a specific emotion or feeling with this design? Is it working?
  • Does the use of color serve a purpose?
  • Is all my company information clear and readable on the card?
  • Will this still project a professional appearance for my business?
  • Would I do business with this company based solely on this business card?

If you can’t answer each question with a strong affirmative response, it may be time to rethink the style of your business cards. Even tiny details – like changing the font from bright blue to navy blue – can be the difference between being seen as a strong leader in your industry and too whimsical for serious business. When in doubt about the message your business cards send, don’t forget to reach out to your trusted network of professional contacts for feedback.

Business Card Tip:
Include your web address and social media accounts on your card. If you have a Facebook page, Twitter account, Google + or any others, your card can help people find out more about your business.