6 Reasons Your Business Cards End Up in the Trash

Reasons why business cards ends up in trash

At any professional gathering, whether it’s a trade show, a corporate conference, or a company event, the exchange of business cards plays a crucial role in networking and making connections. 

 

Surprisingly, statistics show that over 80% of these exchanged business cards ultimately find their way into the trash. In the fast-paced networking environment, individuals often accumulate a large volume of business cards in a short time, making it crucial for your card to leave a lasting impression to avoid being thrown away.

 

The good news is that there are effective strategies to enhance the retention of your business card. In the following discussion, we will explore the reasons why people throw away business cards and provide valuable insights into creating a business card design that remains memorable and valuable to recipients.  

Why do business cards get thrown away?

It’s not uncommon for people to throw away business cards, even if they weren’t asked for. This poses a challenge for professionals who aim to create a lasting impact and meaningful connections. 

 

However, some strategies can increase the chances of prospects saving these cards rather than discarding them.

The design is unprofessional

One of the most common reasons why people discard business cards is due to their unprofessional design.

 

Attempting to cut costs by opting for a generic or basic design can lead to a lack of visual appeal and a failure to effectively represent your business and that’s why Investing in a well-designed business card is crucial to ensure it stands out amongst competitors and leaves a lasting impression.

 

A memorable, visually appealing business card is less likely to be casually discarded.

They don’t need your information right away

Research indicates that over 63% of people discard business cards because they don’t immediately require the service.

 

This presents a challenge, but there is a solution. When individuals receive a paper business card, they often do not promptly add it to their Rolodex, leading to the cards becoming lost or discarded.

Poor printing

When it comes to business cards for your company, it’s essential to avoid printing them on just any office printer. Doing so can lead to a range of issues that may negatively influence how people perceive your business. For instance:

 

  • The use of low-gsm (thin) cardstock can result in a flimsy feeling.
  • Low-resolution or grainy images can detract from the overall professionalism.
  • Uneven text or borders may give off an unpolished appearance.
  • Variations in ink color or quality can create an inconsistent look.
  • Sharp or uneven edges to the card can detract from the overall quality.

These issues can collectively contribute to a perception of unprofessionalism, potentially decreasing the likelihood that individuals will want to engage with your business.

No added value

When it comes to visiting cards, it’s crucial that they effectively communicate your value to prospects. Failure to do so may lead to prospects disregarding your visiting card. Unfortunately, many businesses overlook the opportunity to use their cards as a means of building relationships with prospects.

 

The back of the visiting card can serve as a platform for offering exclusive discounts to prospects for exploring your business or presenting other compelling offers. This approach can help ensure that prospects keep your card in a secure spot.

Poor presentation of your cards

The presentation of your visiting cards is vital in conveying a sense of care and professionalism to your prospects. If you overlook the condition of your cards, it’s challenging to expect your prospects to view them favorably.

 

Consider how and where you store your visiting cards. Are they safely kept in a protective case for easy access, or are they carelessly tossed into your back pocket?

 

When you present cards that are not well-maintained, it may not leave the best impression on others. This can diminish the likelihood of them retaining your card for future reference.

Its black and white

black and white business cards

Black and white business cards have a classic appeal, but adding color can significantly increase their impact.

 

Research suggests that business cards with color are 10 times less likely to be discarded. When designing your next business card, consider adding some color to make it more memorable.

Avoiding typos and cheap-looking business cards

Typos and poor-quality materials can harm your brand’s image. In fact, 43% of people may avoid a business with errors on its cards, and 39% may choose not to work with a company if its cards appear cheap.

 

For easy corrections, try digital business cards, and choose for quality materials to make a lasting impression without overspending.

How to design a business card that people won't throw away?

Designing a business card is more than just choosing a template and adding your contact information. To ensure your card stands out and serves its purpose effectively, you’ll need to blend functionality with visual appeal. Here are key elements to keep in mind:

 

Try new design

To ensure your business card stands out, you need to push the envelope with your design choices. Simple tweaks can transform a standard card into a striking statement piece.

 

Try to move away from generic color combinations of black and white and consider opting for a dark or colored background, or exploring a variety of ink options. Ensure there is enough contrast to keep the text readable, as colors like red or dark hues can make lighter text difficult to see.

 

Here are some insights on contrast:

 

  • On dark cards: White text tends to be most effective.
  • With warm colors: Light text may be hard to read.
  • Colored backgrounds: Might necessitate adjustments in text size, boldness, or spacing to ensure legibility.

When in doubt, simplicity often works best!

Change the feel

A conventional cardstock might not cut it anymore. Look into ways to add a tactile dimension to your business card. Options like embossed elements, spot UV coating, or using textured stock can make a significant impact.

Foil stamped business card finish

Consider these enhancements:

 

  • Gloss or matt finishes: Matt cards are writable, whereas gloss cards might be less so.
  • Embossed effects: Creates a raised texture that adds a touch of elegance.
  • Foiled highlights: Metallic foils can make your card shimmer and stand out.
  • Spot UV coating: Adds a shiny, luxurious touch.

For a truly unique touch, explore materials beyond paper—plastic, metal, or even cork can set you apart and spark conversations.

Play with shapes

Why stick to the traditional rectangle? Visiting cards can come in any shape you imagine. Square, round, or even custom shapes that reflect your business can create a memorable impression. If your business is in a specific niche, why not design a card that reflects that—like a soap-shaped card for a toiletries business?

 

While custom shapes can be pricier, the impact on brand recognition and the likelihood of your card being remembered often make it worthwhile.

Break the mold

Sometimes, defying conventions can be just as effective. Challenge the standard layout of “name, phone number, email” and add something unexpected—a fun fact, a unique website link, or a space for notes. This approach can pique curiosity and create engaging conversations.

 

If you choose to innovate, be ready to explain your creative choices. This can turn into an opportunity to delve deeper into what makes your business special.

Turn your card into a multi-tool

To make your business card unforgettable, consider transforming it into something functional. Whether it’s a fridge magnet, a coaster, or even a bottle opener, a card that serves a dual purpose will be kept and remembered.

Ideas to make your card functional include:

 

  • Coasters or beer mats: A playful option, though it might risk stains.
  • Tools or bottle openers: Practical and memorable.
  • Post-it notes: Simple and useful, ensuring your contact details are always within reach.

Add an incentive for keeping the card

To ensure your visiting card remains useful and valued, consider adding an incentive for keeping it. This can be particularly effective if you sell physical products or run a café or hair salon.

 

Here are some suggestions:

 

  • Loyalty stamps: Include a section for collecting stamps, encouraging repeat visits.
  • Discount codes: Add a coupon code for a discount on their next visit. They’ll need to keep the card to redeem the offer.

Triple-check for mistakes

Errors on the cards can lead to them being discarded. Typos, incorrect addresses, or missing information can negatively impact your business. To avoid this:

 

  • Double- and triple-check: Ensure all details are accurate and up-to-date.
  • Get a second opinion: Have someone else review your card design before printing to catch any mistakes.

Business cards are still relevant

If you still think business cards are outdated, check out these top business card stats for 2024 and decide for yourself.

 

A well-created business card can still be a powerful tool for making a memorable impression. When designed with creativity and professionalism, a business card can make its way into a prospect’s contact list and stay in their memory.

 

A standout business card doesn’t just get noticed; it can also be passed along, introducing you and your brand to new potential clients.

 

So, instead of opting for a bland design, aim to create a business card that’s not only visually striking but also uniquely reflects your brand.

 

Conclusion

If you’re considering a fresh design for your business card but don’t know where to begin, reach out to us today. We offer comprehensive custom printing services and we take care of everything from design and materials to printing options, we can guide you through every step to create a card that truly represents your brand.

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