In the era of the smartphone, where technology continues to adapt and 76% of people texting at least once a day, there is no surprise that print marketing and business cards are sometimes regarded as going extinct.
However, despite digitalisation taking over, business cards are one thing that has not been replaced by a new-fangled gadget. So why are business cards still important marketing tools for entrepreneurs today?
History of the business card
The business card started off as something known as a visiting card or calling card. A visiting card, from around 1615 or even earlier, was left at the house of someone whom you had paid a visit but was not at home. By the 1750s, these cards were being personalised on one side, leaving the other side for their message.
As time went on, these cards translated into what we think of as a business card. Instead of personal details, these cards contained business information about a company or an individual. An 1889 machine could produce up to 100,000 visiting and business cards a day!
Though dimensions and stock might vary throughout the world, they all are created manually or by a web-to-print service, and then by slitting, cutting and creasing. Nowadays, you can also buy slitters cutters creasers which combine all three into one machine.
Benefits of the business card
Instant
Giving someone your business card is an instant transaction. The alternatives, such as swapping contact information via your phone, can take some time. Even a text message will take a few seconds at least. With a business card, you just take it out and hand it over with no fuss.
Personal
In the digital age, there is something extremely personal and commendable about a business that works with handshakes and business cards. When it comes to networking as an entrepreneur, its all about making those connections with people. And connections need to be personal. But first you need to make a good impression.
Makes a good impression
To create an impression on someone, cut through the noise of your competitors by meeting people in person and giving them a business card personally. However, this may of course not be viable at the current time due to social distancing.
To combat the issue, your best bet to spread the word about your operations in the era of a global pandemic can be using digital business cards for businesses. All you’ve to do is save your enterprise card URL on any NFC tag, and tap to connect with others. Thus, you’ll be able to send over your card, without even coming in direct contact with the receiver. Sounds like a convenient option, right?
Having business cards show that you are prepared and ready to network, showing people you are willing to do the work to make your businesses succeed. It can also work to your favour if you are seen to be putting in extra effort with them personally, as it shows you respect them.
Integration
As business cards are super versatile and convenient, you can design them however you want. This means that you can make sure that they tie into your company’s, or potential company’s, branding. Whether its colours, logo, font, or other little details, your business card can tie into your business’s image.
So, do not write business cards off in a world full of social media and technology! Embrace the personal touch that this can give to a transaction and get networking.
