Using Business Cards Effectively

1 Jul 2010 by Paper Exploits - Handmade Personalized Stationery

Awhile back I created new business/name/calling cards for Paper Exploits. I went with something crafty-looking to reflect the handmade nature of my shop. Scalloped edges, textured paper, a little touch of colour, with words going round in a circle. Compare the Paper Exploits card with a more standard/conventional business card:

While I think they work so well as a slip-in to order packages for customers to receive in the mail, I found that at my booths #2 and #3 and Supperclub, they didn’t work so well initially. Why? Simply because they’re so different that people don’t quite get what they are at first glance. People kept thinking I was trying to make them buy/have a look at something. Guess that was kind of an unintended consequence– but that certainly doesn’t equate to failure!

To get around the visual miscommunication, I found a way to ease people into the unique-ness of my card. I started to hand out my card, saying ‘Would you like a card? It’s got my website on it.’, which helped people to realize, ‘Oh, it’s actually a business card!’. After that clicked, I started to get the reaction I was hoping for– they started ooh-ing, ahh-ing, and saying things like ‘Oh! Cool!’ or ‘Wow this’ so cute/unique!’ :]

There some awesome business cards out there– super creative, and I’m sure the people who got it made paid a pretty penny for them (way out of my budget)! Check out some of my favourites here, here, and here. :] Do you have any similar experiences– both in terms of giving out cards and also receiving them? I’d love to hear from you in the comments here, or through an e-mail at PaperExploits@gmail.com :]

Update: I’ve received numerous requests to make business cards as custom orders– unfortunately, I am unable to offer such services at present. Keep watching this space though– I will definitely keep you posted if/when that changes. And thank you, of course, for your interest! :]

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