Are business cards really still relevant? 

As the years roll on and the world becomes increasingly digital, you may wonder if the humble business card still holds any real value. With LinkedIn connections, QR codes, virtual visitor lists and digital contact sharing apps available at our fingertips, it’s a fair question. 

But here’s the truth: business cards are far from obsolete. When done well, they remain a powerful marketing asset and a surprisingly effective tool for making memorable first impressions. 

So, why do business cards still matter? 

Tangible is memorable 

We’re bombarded with digital content every day. Emails get buried, LinkedIn requests are forgotten. A well-designed business card, however, offers something tangible. When you hand someone a quality card, you’re offering a physical reminder of your brand. 

The first impression counts 

Your business card often acts as the very first visual representation of you and your brand. A beautifully designed card signals credibility, attention to detail, and investment in your image. 

They spark a conversation 

Unlike a digital contact exchange that might feel transactional or impersonal, business cards naturally encourage small talk. From the paper stock to the layout, even a bit of clever design can become a conversation starter. Just think of the now-iconic American Psycho scene, a full-blown showdown over the subtle nuances of typography and texture. (For the record, Patrick Bateman’s card was bone with Silian Rail lettering, a Garamond Classico SC style, of course!) 

Offline networking is very much still alive 

Imagine you’re at a busy networking event or trade show, juggling conversations and trying to navigate the crowd. Stopping to unlock your phone and scan a QR code can feel clunky in the moment, and let’s face it, many people simply won’t bother. Handing over a business card, on the other hand, is quick, effortless, and almost always welcomed. 

It’s a miniature marketing asset 

A business card is far more than just your name and contact details. It’s a micro-version of your brand. With the right design, tone of voice and finishes, it becomes a premium asset, one that reinforces your brand’s values long after the conversation ends.  

What makes a good business card? 

Not all business cards are created equal! The difference between forgettable and effective often comes down to the finer details. We’ve detailed what we think makes a business card truly great: 

Clear, simple information: Your name, role, logo, and contact information should be easy to read at a glance. Sometimes less is more! 

Strong visual hierarchy: A good design leads the eye naturally, with important details, like your name or company, given priority. 

Quality materials: Thicker cardstock, matte or soft-touch finishes, and premium printing techniques instantly elevate the perceived value of your brand. 

Creative but functional design: Unique shapes, bold colour schemes, or clever copy can help you stand out, as long as the card is still easy to use and store. 

Tactile finishes: Techniques like embossing, foil stamping, and spot UV add interest and sophistication that digital design simply can’t replicate. 

Something memorable: Whether it’s a bold design choice, a witty tagline, or an unexpected layout, your card should give people a reason to take a second look. 

Are they right for every business? 

Not necessarily, and that’s ok! If you run a fully remote digital consultancy with zero in-person client contact, business cards may not be a top priority. But for the majority of businesses, especially those in creative, professional, and service industries, having a few business cards on hand is still smart marketing. 

So, are business cards still relevant? Our conclusion is yes, when they’re done right! 

They’re not just a formality, but an opportunity to make a lasting impression, build credibility, and extend your brand into the physical world. 

If you’re ready to refresh your business card or explore new print ideas that align with your brand, we’re here to help! Contact us today to find out more about our design and print services.