Career Advice » Career Advice Articles » Networking Advice » Top Five Business Card Design Tips

Gayle Hallgren-Rezac co-author Work The Pond!

For some strange reason, people who are between jobs, looking for a first job or a new career become "cardless." Are they hesitant to prepare a card because they are unsure of what to put as their title? Do they only think that business cards are for those gainfully employed? Relax, it’s just a name card. It’s a way for people to get in contact with you.

Here are some simple tips on creating a business card while out doing your job search:

Spend the money for a professional printed card. It's tempting to create a computer generated card, but your business cards are part of your personal and corporate branding. Card appearance is important. It doesn’t cost much to have a card professionally printed on quality stock. But if you don’t have the budget, any card is better than none!

Keep it simple. There is no need to spend a lot of money with a graphic designer for your business card. Instead, follow some very simple rules. Make sure that the font is large enough that people can read it. Use a professional font -- avoid flowery script or Comic Sans. The layout of the type should be simple, clean and uncluttered. Many printing houses can help with card layout.

Don't use the family phone. Make sure your contact information is private. Having your kids or roommates answer your home phone to take a message from a potential employer is risky. If that kid is a teenager, your chances of getting the message are fifty percent! Have a cell phone number that you answer in a business-like manner at all times of day. The same holds true for your email address. If you can avoid jimsmith@hotmail or janesmith@yahoo your contact information will look more professional. Can you own your own name as a domain name? Your email could come to info@jsmith.com!

Create a title. Many people looking for work are challenged when it comes to creating a title for themselves on their card, but why not establish your credentials based on prior work experience? “Consultant” is a catch-all, but some people find it too generic. Someone employed as a human relations manager can use Human Relations Advisor. An information technology worker can state their area of expertise such as Database Management Specialist. A professional designation can be helpful, particularly if you have just graduated and are looking for your first job.

You've got cards -- now use 'em. Stash them everywhere—be like a squirrel! You never know when you will meet someone who may be that link to the best job you’ve ever had. Stash in your car, your workout bag, your running clothes, and every pocket of every jacket you own. Your business card may be your lottery ticket to the best job imaginable.

Related to Top Five Business Card Design Tips

• JOB LOSS: ACT FAST TO RECONNECT
• What to do with your Business Cards
• E-Mail Etiquette: Know the Rules

About Gayle Hallgren-Rezac
Gayle is a marketer, entrepreneur, and writer. She is also networking guru Darcy Rezac’s excellent tag team-mate. She has spent the last decade and a half observing networking around the world. A master of the art of conversation, Gayle makes networking fun. Her workshops and presentations are described as fresh and imaginative. She speaks on the power of positive networking to change lives and on The Art of R.E.A.L. Conversation™ Through Shepa Leaning Company www.workthepond.com she also offer networking for women (and a few brave men.)