Seemingly inconspicuous, the modern business card says a thousands things in a small piece of cardboard. The modern business card has morphed into a creative display of innovation and character. In a simple glance, you can learn not only the basic company’s info, but something about their values as well. And while our technology-filled world threatens to take the business card to extinction, anyone in business knows that the business card isn’t going anywhere!
The business card as we know it started out as “Visiting Cards” in the 17th century. These were used by the aristocracy to announce their impending arrival. They were roughly the size of a playing card and eventually displayed engraved ornaments and the appropriate coat of arms. Visiting cards became a staple in upper and middle class society.
On the other side of society, the “Trade Card” became popular in London in the 17th century during a time when there was no formal system for numbering streets. Trade cards became a form of advertisement for businesses and included maps with directions on how to find that business. These were originally printed with woodcut or letterpress. As time went on, more colors were used and trade cards became a simple work of art for many.
As industry increasingly grew, a class of entrepreneurs emerged that required a simple exchange of contact information. The Visiting Card and Trade Card was merged to create our modern day business card. It became custom to hand out at presentations and exhibitions, but were still largely looked down upon by the upper class. By the 20th century, the push of industrialism was so big that business cards became far more used than visiting cards and continued to lead the pack.
Business cards today come in uncountable shapes and sizes. Many businesses seek to do “something different” with their card as a way to say there is something different about my business. Circles, mini-cards, folded cards, textured paper, and full color are just the start. However, the standard business card size is still wildly popular, and has an important place in the mix. Business cards today tell so much more than basic information, but tell a contact the feel of the business, include technology, and offer ways to find out more about that business through web links. There are fabulous apps out today that help you digitize the information on a business card. While these apps are wonderful and have their place, there is still some intrinsic value in handing a business card over to another person that will never be shaken.
Business cards are essential to any business owner or even any person. It tells the world that you mean business and you have your act together enough to have business cards made up. The message behind your card is told in an instant and it’s important to have a designer help you send the right message in that instant. Take some time today to see how your company is being portrayed through your business card and remember the rich history of business owners you are a part of!
Historical info found from:
http://sagemedia.ca/articles/the-history-of-business-cards-four-centuries-of-introductions/
http://www.forbes.com/sites/quora/2013/02/04/how-was-the-standard-size-of-a-credit-card-or-a-business-card-established/