From: poighilla on

Pull out all of the business cards that you have collected over the
years and look for some that stand out. If they stand out in your mind,
they have a good chance of standing out in the minds of those that you
will give them to.

One option is to put your photo on your business card - but there are
pros and cons to doing this:

Business cards with photos can be easier to locate when in a large pile
due to the fact that they usually have more color than the typical
business card.
A business card with your photo on it will help a new contact find you
in a meeting or help to differentiate you in a group of people. If you
often make initial contact with someone by phone or email, sending him
or her a business card with your photo on it before you meet in person
is a thoughtful gesture.
Photos add cost, not only in printing but also in having a good quality
photo taken.
Your hairstyle and clothing in your photo can date you. If you do not
make new business cards often, with updated photos that can be a
distinct disadvantage.
Your 'free business cards' (http://www.freebusinesscardsonline.net)
should communicate the essential information clearly and quickly.
Remember, your name and numbers are the most important things on a
business card.

Whether you are creating business cards for the first time or updating
your existing card to improve your image, your business card is the
handshake you leave behind. Be sure it reflects your professionalism,
your skills and your ability to provide the product or service your
prospects require.
Your business card is your initial introduction to potential clients and
customers. If designed and presented correctly, your business cards can
be a powerful tool to show clients you are professional and customer
oriented. Business cards traditionally come in a standard 2 x 3-1/2 size
and are commonly printed on 100# or 12pt-14pt card stock. Many printers
have the ability to print full color custom graphics and pictures on the
front and back of your business cards and business post cards. Research
has shown that business cards printed in four colors (full color) will
attract more attention than one printed in black & white (two color).
Your business cards should reflect your professionalism and skills. It
is what people will use to remember you and contact you. Unfortunately,
business cards are small, making it tough to design a card that makes an
impact. So remember to create your business cards in a way that
utilizes color. Make business cards stand out from the rest so you
won't be forgotten.

Many printers have the ability to print full color custom graphics and
pictures on the front and back of your cards. You can even create and
design your card right online. Your business card is your introduction
to potential clients and customers. Make a lasting impression on them
with your custom printed full color business cards.
Business cards generally consist of a single card stock sheet with an
individual's contact information, including name, company name, and
company address, phone, fax, email, and website address. If you need to
include a great deal of information, use the back side of the card as
well.

Size, Paper Stock, and Color
Most business cards are printed on 100-lb. glossy, professional white or
off-white stock. This is generally the least expensive option. Many
business choose to use specialty stocks to give their business cards
extra flair.
Choose your stock carefully. The stock you choose can say as much about
you and your company as the words the business card contains. You can
choose a vivid, eye-catching color, a subtle textured stock, or stock
with high recycled content, among others. Each type of paper makes a
statement about you and your company.

Over the last several years - full color has become much less expensive.
Since the vast majority of business cards are printed in black ink on
white card stock, adding color is a very simple way to make your
business cards stand out.
The weight of your business card leaves an important impression with
your contacts. A heavier business card will make a better impression.
Paper can be measured in weight or thickness. 100#text is measured in
weight. 14pt is measured in thickness. It can be difficult to
differentiate between the two unless you know both weight and thickness.
The size paper comes from the mill is called "parent" or "basis" size
and it differs with different kinds of paper. That is why "80#cover" is
heavier than "100#text." The point system on the other hand, measures
paper thickness, not weight and is often used with coated papers. Make
sure you talk to the printer about the type of paper they print your
business cards on.




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poighilla