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November 25, 2015

Ways to Encourage People to Keep your Handout

Filed under: Designing Your Business Communication — Tags: — PDWriter @ 8:10 am

Ways to Encourage People to Keep your Handout

Post cards. Brochures. Business cards. Flyers. You’ve spent hours perfecting the look, style and wording on your business handouts. Now, make sure people keep a hold of them. How? Each piece of promotional material should not only show off your business, it should also provide value.

Add a calendar.

A handy, miniature 12-month calendar printed on the back of your business card means your name and business logo will earn a place in your potential client’s wallet. Or, consider adding a month calendar highlighting specials or sales for the next 30 days on the back of your next post card mailing.

Print a coupon.

Everyone loves a discount. A clippable coupon fits perfectly on the back of your business brochure or mailer. If you’re ordering a large quantity of promotional materials to hand out over time, make sure the coupon expiration date isn’t too soon and becomes obsolete before you hand out all the papers.

Create a punch card.

A rewards program keeps people coming back for more in hopes of earning something free or gaining a discount. A punch card offering “Buy 10, Get 1 Free” or something similar ensures they keep your materials handy for each time they shop with you.

Offer a referral program.

Does your business thrive on word-of-mouth customers? Add an online ordering referral code to your business cards or current advertisement. Each time the code is shared and used, both the sharer and new customer get a percentage off their order or a small credit to their account.

Include a recipe.

Does your industry have anything to do with food? Tempt customers to keep your promotional materials by offering a simple, delicious recipe to two. If you send out monthly pamphlets, people will start to look forward to both your news and your culinary ideas!

Highlight a tip.

Offer a helpful checklist or practical how-to tip on the back of your business card. For example, a veterinarian’s business card could highlight CPR procedures for pets or a car salesman could provide a checklist of routine auto maintenance tasks based on mileage milestones.

So, is it time to refresh your collection of promotional materials? Paper Direct offers unique options for everything from postcards to brochures and everything in between. Shop online now!

March 27, 2014

Why Business Cards Are Still Important

Filed under: Designing Your Business Communication — Tags: — PDWriter @ 8:23 am

Endeavor Business Cards by PaperDirectIn the digital era that focuses on all things paperless, it might seem like the traditional business card is irrelevant, however it couldn’t be further from the truth.  While the use for the business cards may have changed in recent decades, it’s still an important tool for any business person to have in their arsenal. There are many reasons why business cards are important, and professionals will continue to find them useful in the coming years.

Why Business Cards are Important

  • Business cards make it quick and easy to communicate with new clients. Business cards include a lot of important contact information — and it can be cumbersome to verbalize a business phone number, mobile phone number, fax number and e-mail address. Business cards are the quickest and most efficient way to provide vital information to another business person.Apex Business Cards by PaperDirect
  • Business cards are a visual representation of your brand and allow you to make a strong first impression with another professional. A logo, photograph or keyword can be used on your business card in order to make a statement about your business, your career and your professional goals.
  • Business cards add legitimacy to your position and to your business. If you do not have a business card, another client might think that you don’t take yourself, your position or your company seriously.
  • Business cards are still an accepted and expected part of the 21st century business world. Whether you are going to an out-of-town conference, a networking event or a business lunch with new clients, you will be expected to have business cards on hand to distribute. It may seem outdated and antiquated, but the business card is still important.

Most professionals in the business world come equipped with digital tools, apps and products that simplify their lives. However, while a smartphone is handy and can be loaded up with hundreds of apps that improve efficiency and productivity, it’s simply not Equilibrium Business Cards by PaperDirectas powerful as a small business card tucked into a person’s pocket.

Business owners and managers should still make business cards a priority, and create them for each employee who works for them. Young entrepreneurs should be encouraged to design cards that showcase their personality, their passion and their drive. The business card is and will remain an important part of professional life in the 21st century. To see dozens of business card designs and options, visit PaperDirect today.

August 21, 2013

Nothing Says “Professional” Like a Sleek Set of Business Cards

Filed under: Designing Your Business Communication — Tags: , — PDWriter @ 7:37 am

Ambassador Business Cards by PaperDirectYou only have one chance to make a good first impression in the business world. Nothing works better for fulfilling that purpose than business cards.

A business card forms an important part of building your brand identity. It offers a snapshot of your business to clients, vendors and investors alike. Your bottom line hinges on making a good impression with these people. Creating a sleek set of business cards will showcase your brand in a positive light.

What essential elements should your business card include? Contact informationRoyal Business Cards by PaperDirect is the most important thing. Include the current address, phone number, email and website for your business. This will make it easy for people to know they can reach you and that you will be available to answer questions or take feedback.

Your business card should also include key parts of your branding strategy. It can be designed with the same logo, graphics and color scheme you use on all marketing materials related to your business. You can also include the slogan you typically feature in your branding message. These little touches will help people remember your company and Metro Style Business Cards by PapeDirectalso influence them to tie specific products or services to your brand.

A set of business cards makes you look and feel more professional. They are perfect to hand out at trade shows and conventions. A good business card is also a great conversation piece. It can spark additional interest in your company and get people asking more about what you do. There is no way you can afford to do business without including business cards in the picture.

Check out PaperDirect to see the latest selection of business cards. We offer dozens of business card designs to fit your needs and your tastes.

March 25, 2013

Business Cards Do’s and Don’ts

Filed under: Designing Your Business Communication — Tags: , — PDWriter @ 2:27 pm

Ambassador Business Cards by PaperDirectAs Forbes puts it, the business card can be the “entrepreneur’s best friend.” Business cards represent an inexpensive, yet powerful, marketing tool that puts your information out into the world — and into the hands of potential customers, employers, business partners, and other movers shakers in your network.

That is, when it’s done right.

When it’s done wrong, well… the entrepreneur’s BFF can turn into his worst enemy. OK, that might be a bit dramatic, but think of it this way: Often your business card represents your first — or maybe your only — chance to make a good and lasting impression. So, although no one wants a boring business card, the alternative may be even worse. Who knew these little pieces of paper were so important?

These “do’s and dont’s” will help you get your business cards just right.

Business Card DO’s

Your card should include your essential information, such as:

  • Full nameRoyal Business Cards by PaperDirect
  • Title
  • Business Name
  • Email
  • Phone Number/s
  • Website or online portfolio
  • Physical Address

Additionally, follow these tips for business card DO’s:

  • Whatever a potential client, employer or networker would need to get in touch with you should be on your card.
  • Keep your card design simple. Left align tends to look less cluttered and is easier to read than center or right-aligned designs. Pick a simple, classic font and stick to it; at most, use two complementary fonts.
  • Use color, but keep the palette to three or — at most — four tones that work well together. Choose darker colors as they’re easier to read and use larger font sizes because, again, they’re easier to read.
  • Include your business logo and other branded materials. Your business cards should match the look and tone of your company’s website, storefront and other marketing formats.
  • Tailor your business cards’ overall look and theme to your industry. In banking or law? Choose a conservative, dignified theme. In design, art or fashion? Choose a theme that reflects your innovative style.
  • Finally, use high-quality cardstock and a professional printer to create your cards. After all, they represent you and your business!

Business Card DONT’S

Metro Style Business Cards by PaperDirectWhile including your essential contact info is essential, avoid including too much information. After all, this isn’t your resume or your portfolio, so you don’t need to list all of your skills and experience. Packing your card full will also make them appear cluttered and unprofessional.

Stick with your company’s established branding. You want a cohesive, memorable look, and using too many different colors, fonts or themed elements just distracts from the overall message.

Similarly, avoid using generic clip art on your cards. It looks cheap and unprofessional.

Finally, avoid using untraditional materials, such as chocolate or soap. Yes, it’s cute and creative, but once it’s all used up, so is your message — and your contact info.

For professional, custom designed business cards that will create a lasting positive impression, browse the huge selection at Paper Direct!

December 3, 2012

Business Holiday Greeting Cards for Clients

Filed under: Marketing & Sales Promotion Techniques — Tags: — PDWriter @ 11:55 am

Cobalt Christmas Printable Greeting Cards by PaperDirectIt’s that time–holiday cards for clients and customers should be mailed out by December 15. If you’re trying to decide whether or not to send business holiday greeting cards this holiday season, we think it’s a great idea. Not only are holiday cards a tradition, but sending holiday cards to customers lets them know you appreciate them.

One thing to keep in mind when sending holiday cards to clients is to remember that not everyone shares your religion. If you don’t know all of your clients’ religious affiliations (and most business owners/manages don’t), it’s best to send a neutral “Happy Holidays” or “Season’s Greetings.” Sending a Christmas card to someone who celebrates Hanukkah shows that you don’t know that person at all or indicates a bit of insensitivity to other people’s individual differences.Star Glow Printable Greeting Cards by PaperDirect

Business Holiday Greeting Card Tips

Here are some more suggestions for sending holiday cards this year:

  • Send business holiday greeting cards of high quality like the ones from PaperDirect. Sign each and every card instead of using a signature stamp, which can appear impersonal. Adding a personal message above your signature is a wonderful added touch that will mean a lot to the recipients.
  • Send tasteful cards as some clients will not appreciate an off-color holiday greeting, and you must maintain the business/client relationship even at the holidays. While you may find a card funny, your recipients may find it offensive. Keep with traditional themes and festive sayings to make a great impression on your clients.
  • Feel free to include your company information below your signature, and you can even include a business card inside, but if you do, you must include a personal, hand-written message. Simply including a business card with no note will look as though you’re just trying to get more business. You don’t want to appear to have an ulterior motive for sending out holiday greetings.
  • Try to avoid using computer-generated address labels as this looks tacky and appears as though the recipients are not important enough to have their own cards filled out. Even if you have hundreds or thousands of cards to mail, enlist the help of office staff to hand write the addresses, which is a nice, much-appreciated personal touch.
  • Use proper titles when addressing the recipients. For instance, “Dr. and Mrs. Brian Taylor is more appropriate than “Brian and Carol Taylor.” If you are sending a card to a couple with different last names, be sure to address the envelope and greeting as such. For instance, “Dr. Michael Thompson and Ms. Linda Arnold.” Traditionally, the man’s name comes first in the address if the couple is married and if not married, put the names in alphabetical order: “Ms. Linda Arnold and Dr. Michael Thompson.”
  • Send business holiday cards to the business address of the recipient unless you know the recipient on a personal level. If you send the holiday card to the recipient’s home address, be sure to include the spouse’s name in the address (if there is a spouse or partner).
  • Send your business holiday cards in time to arrive before the date of the holiday. Winters Glow Printable Greeting Cards by PaperDirectDecember fifteenth is the standard cut-off date for cards to arrive on time in the states. International cards should be mailed out sooner. Here is a table for suggested holiday mailings.

PaperDirect is your one-stop online shopping source for holiday greeting cards. Check out our huge selection and stock up today!

February 27, 2012

Creative Business Card Designs

Filed under: Designing Your Business Communication — Tags: — PDWriter @ 8:00 am

Casino Business CardsBusiness cards are a must to get your company name out there. The PaperDirect blog has posted a lot of information to help you design or choose the business card that perfectly represents you and your business. Creative business card designs will get the recipient’s attention and make him/her more inclined to do business with you.

The ideal business card has the perfect combination of professionalism and creativity. PaperDirect has numerous creative business card designs from which to choose, and our Interior Designs Business Cardsconvenient online shopping makes it easier for you to take your time and find the one you think is best for your needs.

Even though business cards must include contact information and often have the company logo on them, they can still be jazzed up to make them more creative. The more artistic and creative your business, the more creative your business card can be. You can choose different materials to have your business cards created from or use standard white business cards with black text. Your business cards can be portrait or landscape format, folded,  or two-sided, but we recommend you keep them the standard size so they fit easily into business card holders that many people carry.

Cocktail Server Business CardsPaperDirect even has “print your own” business card templates allowing you to download our designs and print any time you like. Whether you need ten or a thousand, these easy-to-use templates will surely produce the creative business card design you want. An 8.5″ X 11″ sheet of paper you choose prints 10 cards per sheet in full color for a one- or two-sided design. It’s that easy. With no waiting for delivery and with our selection of business card verses to use, you will have as many business cards you need in no time at all. All you need is a computer and printer, and the rest of the supplies come from PaperDirect.

For more ideas regarding creative business card designs, read “Make a Good First Impression with Eye Catching Business Cards.”

Just imagine the creative flair you can add to your business cards yet still keeping the message professional and informative. Why not order online today at PaperDirect?

November 14, 2011

Company Business Cards That Get Attention

Filed under: Designing Your Business Communication — Tags: — PDWriter @ 8:00 am

Lighthouse Business CardsYour company business cards say a lot about you. In one quick flash, people are handed a small card with information about your business, and they sometimes make a decision right then and there whether or not they will patronize your business in the future.

You’ve heard the saying, “You don’t get a second chance to make a first impression.” Keep that in mind as you think about a design, logo and slogan for your company business cards. But also keep in mind that in this day and age of everything electronic and innovative, it’s important to stand out from the pack. In order to do that, you may have to consider doing something outrageous like coming up with one-of-a-kind company business cards like the ones from this Odd Stuff Magazine .com

If you are looking for something more traditional, PaperDirect is your online source for professional company business cards. Here are some suggestions for making your company business cards memorable:Gems Business Cards

  • Eye-catching design (be sure the colors on your business card match your company’s colors)
  • Choose easy-to-read font (size and style)
  • Include all standard contact information: company name, address, phone number, fax number, email address, website URL, your name and title
  • Include the logo, picture or graphic image that you use consistently for all company materials
  • Always keep information on your business card up to date
  • Be succinct
  • Utilize the back of the business card with a discount, testimonial or couponDaydream Business Cards

To maximize the potential benefit of handing out your company business cards, carry them with you at all times, and if you give one out, ask for one in return. You can also post them on bulletin boards in grocery stores, restaurants, and anywhere that allows companies to post business cards.

PaperDirect is your online source for everything you need to make your business a huge success. From letterhead and envelopes to advertising materials like flyers and brochures, PaperDirect has it all.

September 12, 2011

Make a Good First Impression with Eye Catching Business Cards

Filed under: Designing Your Business Communication — Tags: — PDWriter @ 8:00 am

Make a great first impression with fabulous business cards.  Make sure your clients remember you and your business with eye-catching colors, a great logo, and a brilliant tag line.  PaperDirect makes this easy with a wide variety of business cards, your sure to find the perfect design for your business.

Butterfly Flower Business CardsBeach 3 Light Aqua Business CardsCherry Cheesecake Business CardsOpen Road Business CardsTropical Fish Business Cards

August 15, 2011

10 Helpful Business Card Tips

Filed under: Designing Your Business Communication — Tags: — PDWriter @ 8:00 am

Diamond Plate Business CardsYour business card is a marketing tool that must say lot in a limited space. The right business card can be the key to a thriving business. Here are 10 helpful business card tips for the large and small business owner:

  1. Communicate more than just your contact information with a creative, catchy tag line.
  2. Order a large number of cards as this will reduce the cost of making the business cards.Jumping Dog Business Cards
  3. Avoid the use of clip art for your business logo; have a logo professionally designed that is unique to your company. You can have a logo designed for as little $30.
  4. Be sure to include your company’s URL on your business card. The absence of a web address may cause you to lose credibility.
  5. Keep all of your information current. There is nothing worse than calling a business and getting a “disconnected number” message.
  6. Keep the language and font on the card simple. Make sure your main message does not get lost. Make the card easy to read.
  7. Limit your business card to the standard size of 3.5″ X 2″. Anything different will not fit into standard business card holders.
  8. Be sure your business card reflects your image. A funeral home business card should not be flashy and colorful. Keep somber tones for more somber companies and save the artsy images for the flashier companies.
  9. Be sure the company name is the bit of information that stands out the most on the business card.
  10. Keep your business cards with you at all time: car, home, office, and wallet or purse.

Fresh Petals Business CardsKeep these helpful business card tips in mind as you market your new company. Paper Direct has a full line of business cards from which to choose.

July 11, 2011

Need Inspiration? Try These 10 Creative Business Card Design Tips

Filed under: Designing Your Business Communication — Tags: — PDWriter @ 8:00 am
Lighthouse Business CardsHere are some business card design tips that will help you create an attractive, appealing business card that lets others know who you are and what your business is all about:
  1. Use vibrant colors to pique interest or emphasize something but no more than 3-4 different colors
  2. Use colors from your logo or other marketing materials
  3. Only include a photo if it’s a very good one of you and appropriate
  4. Avoid the use of clip art on your business card—use images that are unique to you and your business
  5. Keep the colors, style and language consistent with your website and other marketing materials
  6. Text should be aligned left; centered text is sometimes difficult to read and put text on front of card only
  7. Avoid unusual, difficult-to-read fonts, font that is too small, or more than one or two fonts and avoid light-colored font
  8. Keep the information clean and simple. Avoid visual overload such as maps, multiple locations, appointment information, etc. Folded business cards are an excellent choice when you have a great deal of information to convey.
  9. Make sure your business card design matches the overall theme of your business.
  10. Don’t deviate from the standard size and shape of business cards (3.5 x 2”) so it fits into most wallets, business card holders and business card scanners

If you follow these simple business card design tips, you may notice more

customers and clients coming through your doors.Paper Direct has a full line of business cards and business card holders. Please shop online today at www.paperdirect.com to find all your paper office needs.

April 5, 2011

Business Card Paper Stock – The Right Look, The Right Weight

Filed under: Marketing & Sales Promotion Techniques — Tags: — PDWriter @ 8:00 am

Cruise Ship Alaska Business CardsWhen it comes to business cards, the choices seem endless, but that should be seen as a positive–not a negative. The vast selection of business cards at PaperDirect will amaze you, and we’re sure you’ll find one that perfectly represents you and your business.

There’s a bit more to business cards than meets the eye. Yes, we want them to look professional, have an easy-to-read font and eye-catching images, but there are some other decisions that must be made when it comes to choosing your business card. Have you ever thought about the weight (or thickness) of your business card?

Weight Information for Business Cards

As mentioned in the title of this blog, business cards are printed on some form of “paper stock” whose visual effect, method of printing, and cost will vary. When you choose a business card design from PaperDirect, you can click directly on that card and get weight information. For example, a traditional business card that is standard size (2″ X 3.5″) comes in custom printed weight (you customize online and we print) and desktop printable weight (you print on our designed paper). Here are the custom printed specifications:

  • New heavy stocks (111 lb)
  • Premium white stocks and super glossy (130 lb)
  • 80 lb white stocks and super glossy
Here are the desktop printable specifications:
  • 65 lb cover stock
  • 8.5”x 11” sheet
  • 10 cards/sheet
  •  2” x 3.5” business card

Paper with a heavier weight, especially with rag bond edging or embossing will add that level of quality and feel you get from high quality business cards.  Regardless of how great the design is or what is pre-printed on your cards, the real first impression your card will make is the way it feels when someone is holding it.

Save Money on Your Business Cards

One way to save a lot of money on business cards is to make them yourself. There are lots Crane Business Cardsof templates available for popular word processing and graphics design programs that make lying out and designing your own cards a breeze. All you have to do is put the company logo or graphic you want on the card, set up the text with names and company info and print them off on business card paper stock. You can actually layout and design business cards in a matter of a few minutes and make changes in seconds.

Coffee Beans Scoop Business CardsMake sure your business card makes a good first impression for you. It may cost you a few pennies extra per card for heavier, higher-quality business card paper stock, but that first impression will be priceless.

PaperDirect is your one-stop online shopping source for business cards and other necessities for business owners and managers. The PaperDirect blog often has suggestions for business card designs and business cards as a networking tool. Have a comment or question? We’d love to hear from you. Simply click “Leave a Comment” and let us know your idea or question!

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