By: Maureen Corbett
Even in this day and age when LinkedIn is a huge resource
and online connectivity is readily available to almost everyone, business cards
are still an integral part of one’s professional life. Having one as a young professional can not
only help you stand out among your peers, but it’s a great tool to have your
contact information passed along to the right people who could hire you for a
job/internship.
However, the idea of creating a business card can be
daunting. Especially for those of us who wouldn't call ourselves creative,
coming up with a logo that represents one’s professional brand is something
most people would shy away from. Not to mention it can be difficult to decide
which of your many modes of communication you want to include. Although the task
may seem difficult, creating a business card is easier than it seems and has
many rewarding payoffs. Here are a few tips to get you started:
1.
Enlist the Help of a Professional
If visual design isn't one of your
strengths, utilize your extra resources. Whether it is a friend in graphic
design, your co-worker who has an eye for color, or a professional who designs
business cards for a living, having a second opinion can never hurt. Search for
local businesses in your area that specialize in design and ask if they are
willing to help.
2.
Keep it Simple….
Only include the information that
is absolutely necessary. Don’t include your email address from 7th
grade or your MySpace account that you haven’t looked at in years. Take the
time to think about how you prefer to connect with people and include that
information. Do you have a website or an online portfolio? Feel free to include
that information as well. Just make sure you don’t overload your readers with
too much information to the point where they don’t know the best way to get in touch with you.
3.
…But Try to Stand Out.
Be visual. Play with different
shapes, lines, color, etc. Use creative embossing techniques or print your
business card on non-traditional media (ex: different textured paper, wood,
metal, etc.) Think outside the box. Try and think of ideas that will spark
conversation when you hand it to a potential employer
4.
Add Your Personality
Think about the type of work you
want to accomplish and try to embody that in your business card. A business is a small trace of yourself that
you can leave with a professional to make a final impression, so make sure you
are well represented.
If you want more tips regarding how to create the best
business card, check out these links below:
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