Far from being ‘old school’, business cards are more relevant than ever to millennials wishing to do business efficiently. The vast majority of consumers may be conducting online research before making a purchase and comparing various competitors before making a purchase but the process of exchanging cards involves so much more than sales. Business cards are a way for companies (and freelancers) to express their style and vision, but they are also immensely practical tools when it comes to keeping in touch. Imagine being in a networking event and meeting dozens, perhaps hundreds, of new people. How to remember their names and any specific contact details? By relying on their business card.

Savvy millennials with an eye for style can blend the best of seasoned and nouvelle business practises by opting for cards that are different to what is expected. Note that this doesn’t necessarily mean opting for a shocking or overtly artistic style. It simply involves turning your card into a symbolic work of art that can be as simple and sophisticated or bold and cutting-edge as you like.

 

Dual side printing

Forget about a simple neutral toned card with a chic yet simple font on one side of your card. These days, both sides of the card are being used to full effect, often with contact details on one side; and a symbol, quote, or logo on the other. The second side of your card can be used to add a funky image, a seal, or any other image that appeals to your target market. Think well if you decide to use symbolic graphics, relying on a professional team that can provide you with a range of ideas.

 

Plastic fantastic

Think of the most common material used in business cards and your mind probably instantly conjures up the matte, white/beige/cream cards, which are great if you wish to make a sophisticated impression. However, if you work in a creative industry like design, music, or theatre, why not opt for nouvelle material like plastic, which is super durable but also exudes modernity? If you prefer a more traditional material but like the idea of high gloss, try a technique like UV coating; according to Clash Graphics, this coating “makes a card more durable and brings out the design.”

 

In living color

New style business cards use colour boldly, sometimes on the primary face of the card itself and at other times on the edge of the card (which adds a contemporary ‘framed’ effect to your card, but only when viewed from the side). Metallics are also in. One super cool trend involves the use of metallic ink, which enables you to use a wide array of CMYK colours and to sparkle and reflect light.

 

Playing with texture

Playing with texture is key in the current business card sector. Think recycled cardboard for a cool eco look, soft cotton for a simple yet stunning natural feel, or soft velvet lamination for a touch of luxury. Artists in particular love different textures, including double thickness cards that contain their artwork on one side; these cards are on the high end price-wise, but they are worthy of collection and will certainly tell clients you are serious about your work.

 

Far from being a thing of the past, business cards are key when it comes to the practical side of networking and keeping in touch with potential clients and collaborators. To millennials, a business card must do something more than simply list their contact details. It must express their style and culture, and give clients a sneak peek into the level of products and services they can provide.

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