Stand Out in a Crowd...

How many business cards have you received in the last year and how many do you still remember? I’m learning that business cards should look professional but still have flair to them. That means not having too much going on as far as graphics while still being attractive. My business card is an extension of my work and I want to be able to market myself the right way. Here are some tips I’ve learned while researching business cards:

• Only choose the best paper for your business cards. Thicker heavier paper is better as it looks more expensive and professional.

• Use colorful printing; prices have dropped, it does not cost much more than standard two color cards.

• Use a tagline that will quickly let the person know what your product/skill is.

• Put a picture on your business card. Studies have shown that people are more likely to hold on to a Business card with a photo on it. It could be your picture, a picture of your product, or a combination of both. Picture cards get attention!

• Do not use a premade business card design called templates. The more people who use these templates, the more your card starts to look like everybody else’s. You want to have a business card that stands out, not one that gets lost in the crowd.

I’ve learned that if I want to use good business etiquette and good marketing then I need to start handing out more of my business cards. This will help me to conduct my business in a much more professional and efficient manner. There is nothing easier or more profitable than using business cards in my marketing strategy.

“Marketing” no longer means groceries...

One of the biggest challenges I’ve had is getting the word out about my shop. Not just about myself, but about the handmade revolution that is taking over the country. People seem tired of all the mass produced junk they are being offered. You, me, and Etsy are all part of a bigger movement that values artists, artisans, and quality goods that are made with care. The market place is looking for a move back to simpler times, products made with love and caring, supporting local craftsmen and merchants. I am part of that movement but I need to get the word out! My first step in a bigger marketing plan:

1. Have Business Cards With Your Etsy Shop Link Close At Hand. A lot of business I hope to get will be from who I know, and who knows me. A great step to getting my name and my ETSY shop out in the open is to hand out business cards that have all my company’s information on them. I may not have immediate sales (also since it is summer, it’s a slower shopping season) but when they are in the market for a nice gift maybe they’ll think of me and that card I gave them. The big challenge is not making the cards; it’s keeping them with me at all times. I’m going to put some in my Husband’s wallet as backup when I don’t carry my purse and keep a few in our cars. I just need to get better at handing them out!

More on my Marketing plan in future posts!