Last week several members of a customer’s team toured our office. The group included four designers and two coordinators. When the team was introduced to our marketing department, I inquired who administrated their social media networks. One of the designers was the primary go-to person for social media in their organization. He and I began discussing (OK; I did most of the discussing) social media. He had some questions. I offered to help. He pulled out his phone and asked for my contact information. Rather than slow down the tour, I handed him my card. My card shares my email, cell phone, and social media handles. It’s all there in one easy to use 3.5” by 2” space.

Why You Still Need Business Cards

Why not? Let’s say you’re at a networking event and want to exchange contact information with a new acquaintance. But when you attempt to hand him or her a card they pull out their phone and ask for your email; so much for your business card. But this person doesn’t represent everyone at the event; others will want and appreciate cards. You only lose if you weren’t prepared to accommodate those who want to contact you digitally and those who prefer cards.

It puts something in people’s hands. There’s something about involving as many senses as possible that humans find attractive. A card has substance, color, and words. Cards can be held, touched, and pocketed for future use.

It beats most people’s memory. How often have you been introduced to someone, shook hands, and 15 minutes later couldn’t remember their name. If you’d exchanged cards, you’d know their name, and they yours.

It’s a sign of professionalism. A card denotes attention to detail. The lack of a business card may cause folks to wonder if your business is legitimate or only a pipe-dream. Of course, the business card must look professional as well.

It shares a wealth of information in a small space. A properly designed business card shares multiple contact information: phone numbers, email, and social networks. It names the organization and the title of the beholder. Cards can share calls to action, unique business positions, and company slogans. Well-designed company logos, colors, and fonts strengthen the brand.

Are You Sold on Business Cards Yet?

If the five reasons listed above aren’t enough to convince you—how about six more.

  • Cards are inexpensive.
  • Everyone isn’t online 24/7
  • Exchanging business cards is socially accepted if not expected.
  • They’re easier to carry around than a boxful of brochures.
  • The format is open to creative expression—a business card can uniquely reflect the culture of an organization.
  • They still work when there’s no Wi-Fi or the internet is down.

We Have Two Questions for You

First, if you don’t have business cards… why not? And secondly, if you do have cards, do they truly represent you and your organization or are they an afterthought? If you’d like to learn more about professional business cards, our TKO Marketing Solutions team would be happy to help you. You could say—it’s in the cards.