The Business Card

What to include on your business card?

The principal item of information to include on your business card is your full name, first and last. In the past, propriety called for the use of a title; “Miss” or “Ms” preceding the name of a young woman, “Mrs.” preceding the name of a married woman, and “Mr.” preceding the name of a man. Today, such a title is no longer obligatory for men or women. However, it is customary for certain professionals to distinguish themselves with the appropriate title such as Dr., Esq., or RN. Military ranks may also figure on a business card, as well as ecclesiastical titles or titles of nobility. Such details are often listed in smaller font just under the name on the business card.

Professional use

If your business card is meant for a professional purpose, the name of your company and your job title should appear on the card, as well as the company logo, when appropriate. If you work in a liberal profession, your business card should reflect your area of expertise. Doctors, lawyers, and notaries should choose a clean and simple design. Retailers could choose illustrated business cards, representing the products and services they offer. Employees of an established company should use a business card with the logo of their company, or even a model created specifically along the graphic guidelines of the company. Creative professionals can exhibit their artistic side with imaginative designs, and even special business card formats.

Personal use

On the contrary, when ordering business cards for personal use you may freely choose from a large variety of formats, designs, and layouts. You should consider the milieu where your card will circulate, and the image of yourself that you would like to present. If you and your contacts are more conservative, you might choose a classic design on white paper. However, if you so desire, you may choose a business card with elaborate designs, photographs, bright colors, textured paper... The possibilities are endless!
It is not only common to create business cards for yourself, but also for your family. A card which mentions Mr., Mrs., and children is the modern day version of a visiting card, and can serve as a tool for family correspondence.

Symbolism of the business card

Your business card is an important instrument establishes your professional identity. It allows an employee to demonstrate his or her position in and affiliation with a company. It also gives a serious dimension to a hobby of activity practiced by a person. It can be highly symbolic when printed with the name of a couple who has just settled together, married or not. A teenager will be especially proud to carry his or her own business card, seeing it as a rite of passage into adulthood. At any age, the business card greatly reflects the character and personality of its owner.

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