Your business card as marketing tool

A properly designed logo on a business card will keep you looking professional and build your brand with prospects.

Here are Robichaud’s rules for crafting an eye-catching business card:

> Stick to the facts
Be concise on the card to avoid confusion about who you are and how you can be reached.

Cards should be clean and simple, says Robichaud. Include your name, your website’s URL and your contact number all on the same side of the card.

> Create a great graphic
Give your business card — and your brand — some punch with a professionally designed logo.

Robichaud recommends hiring a small, local graphic design firm to create a professional logo for your business, which will be used on your business card. Typically it costs between $500 and $1,500 for the design work. Although the price may seem high, in comparison to the cost of other forms of advertising, it’s worth it, Robichaud says.

> Use the best materials
While printing costs for business cards are fairly inexpensive, the low price shouldn’t be reflected in the overall look.

People will judge the quality of your business by the card, Robichaud says, so avoid cheap, flimsy paper. While it may seem trivial, use the best paper and ink possible.

> Talk to your compliance department
Ask your compliance officer if you are permitted to use business cards you developed in place of those provided by your firm, Robichaud says. An individual brand is important in distinguishing you from other advisors, he says.

Your firm may require that you include its logo as well as your own.

> Make it multi-purpose
Get more mileage out of your business card by using it as a nametag at events.

Instead of using the typical “Hi, my name is” card at industry functions, place your business card, with the logo facing out, in the provided plastic sleeve, says Robichaud. (Keep that use in mind when selecting font sizes for your card.)

People will begin to recognize the logo and it will help you build your brand.

IE