A distinctive business card provides a lasting impression of you and your company. It tells the world what you are all about. More than that, it gives your clients and associates a way to connect with you quickly and easily. You will make a more lasting impact when you design your card carefully.

1. Show Your Star Quality

You are the star of your business card. Do what celebrities do and make sure you stand out from the crowd. Start by including an attractive photo of yourself, especially if you will be dealing with others face to face.

2. Clarify, Don’t Confuse

Let your card state clearly who you are and what you do. At the same time, do not give too much information. Too much writing on the card makes it hard for customers to identify you at a glance.

3. Be Practical When It Counts

Sometimes, you just have to be practical to be remembered. For instance, use the size of card that will fit in a wallet easily. A throwaway card is worse than useless, so make sure that valued customer or colleague can fit in your cards with others she has stored. Unless you have a very good reason to do otherwise, stick to the standard 3.5″ by 2″ business card.

4. Avoid Getting Carried Away with Fancy Fonts

Choose one or two fonts and no more. Clear, readable fonts are best for that all important contact information. A distinctive font works best, but do not choose one that is so stylized that it detracts from your message. The only time you might profitably stray from this idea is when designing artwork for your card, such as the logo motif.

5. Remember the Basics

Always keep in mind the primary purpose of a business card. It should give the reader everything she needs to find you. Include phone and fax numbers, a mailing address, an email address, and a website URL if you have one.

6. If It Feels Good, Do It

Your card will be more attractive if it feels good in the hand. Great tactile features, such as embossing, give a positive and classy image. Most importantly, use 12pt to 14pt high quality paper.

7. Describe Your Services

Your card should speak for itself when an acquaintance comes across it in his wallet. Create a flash of memory, recognition and understanding with a very short description of the major services you offer.

8. Show Who You Are

For example, if you are an art company, the card should display your artistic sensibilities in all its design features. On the other hand, if your business is more conservative in nature, your card should be conservative too.

License: Royalty Free or iStock

Your business card printing should quickly tell the reader who you are, what you do and how to reach you. A winning card combines a variety of design features to present the image and information that is crucial to your business success.