Did you know that more than 95 billion business cards are printed out every year around the world? The impact of a business card can go a long way.
A popular marketing aid for decades, business cards are a convenient way to share important contact information with potential clients. Business cards are almost required for effective networking.
How many business cards should I order? That’s a great question! It depends on multiple factors, but we’ll dive deeper below.
Continue to read to learn more about business card benefits and why you should invest in an ample supply of business cards.
Why Do Business Cards Matter?
When business cards were first introduced, there was no internet, no smartphones, or convenient technology to exchange contact information.
Businessmen and women had to hand out business cards to provide their information to customers or potential customers. Common information on business cards included the individual’s business address, company position, and telephone number.
As business cards became more popular, the more of a custom they became. Whether handed out at networking events or after casually meeting someone at a restaurant, business cards have become a marketing tactic.
In today’s era, it is way easier to exchange information. With modern smartphones, one can create a new contact quickly. Even with such technology, business cards are far from dead.
Business cards are as popular today as they were decades ago. Why?
Handing out a business card exuberates professionalism. It demonstrates preparation and the eagerness to conduct business.
Designing a Business Card
Understanding the influence a business card can have, it is important to design a quality card that stays on brand.
Designing your business card may be challenging, but is often enjoyable. The main thing to remember is to not rush the design process.
When you hand out your business card, it will be part of a potential client’s first impression of you and your company. In turn, you want your card to accurately represent you.
Do you have certain brand colours? Be sure to incorporate them into the design. All of your marketing materials, including your business card, should be respectful of your branding. If there is inconsistency, some may find this unprofessional and distracting.
There is a lot of leeway in business card design and this is a good thing. Be as unique and creative as you would like.
Some companies even print their business cards in the shape of their product. For example, a fruit company’s business cards are in the shape of an orange.
This originality can make a difference. It allows your company to stand out.
Regarding the shape and size of your card, be mindful that people often put business cards in their wallet or purse.
How Many Business Cards Should I Order?
As highlighted above, there is no one right answer. There are multiple factors to consider before determining how many business cards you should order. Below we discuss a few of the main factors to think about before placing an order.
Size of Company
The size of your company can influence how many business cards you may need. If you are a smaller company and working on an expansion, you will need a reliable supply of business cards to hand out.
No matter where you are, it is smart to have at least 10 business cards in your wallet in case you meet a potential client. Some of the best networking opportunities are unexpected and spontaneous. It is important to be prepared for such occasions.
Type of Company/Occupation
Your profession itself may dictate how many business cards you need to have in supply. If you are a real estate agent or lawyer, you will need to hand out cards frequently. If you are a surgeon, business cards are not as influential in gaining new clients.
Let your occupation guide you through the business card ordering process. You know your client base and who you are trying to attract.
Networking Events
Do you attend a lot of networking events or conferences? Your profession may thrive on this interaction. If you attend multiple professional networking events a year, you may need more than 1,000 business cards handy.
The worst thing that can happen at an event is that you run out of marketing materials. The person you are talking to may be your next big client. It is important to be safe rather than sorry.
What Does This Mean for Me?
On average, most people have between 500 to 1000 business cards in stock. Often business card print companies provide a discount on large bulk orders.
If you know you need a lot of business cards, place one giant order. The price per card will be less in comparison to smaller orders.
As discussed in the networking section, individuals who attend networking events regularly may need more than 1,000 business cards per year. Some even place orders for 1,500 to 2,000 cards.
Print Quality Business Cards With Hippoprint
How many business cards should I order? That is completely up to you!
You know your industry and if business cards are a good investment to reach your client base. The most important thing to remember is to have enough in case of spontaneous networking.
Just as important as business card design is print quality. Potential clients will notice the quality of your card. This is why it is important to invest in high-quality printing.
At Hippoprint, we print business cards for companies in every industry each day. We understand that quality matters.
We have a variety of different printing options to select from so that your card can have the perfect texture and feel. Explore our Sample Pack before bulk ordering!
To learn more about us and how we can be of service to you, please contact us today.