1. Find a design that reflects your brand's personality.

Your business card says a lot about your small business so, choose a design that reflects your brand. Maybe you're an interior decorator specializing in modern styling and loves clean lines-choose a modern, sleek design. Or perhaps you're a dog walker with an outgoing personality-reflect your fun nature with a colorful, less formal card.

2. Find the right typeface.

If there's a font you've been using on your website or other marketing materials, bring that to your business card. The font you choose should be easy to read and represent your brand – maybe an elegant script if you're an etiquette coach or typewriter-inspired font if you're a writer. All text should be at least 8 pts. Print more important information (like your name or business name) in a larger size, a different typeface, or bold.

3. Settle on size and shape.

Most business cards are rectangular, about the size of a credit card, and laid out horizontally. People are familiar with this format, so it's a safe choice but if you want to stand out, consider using a square shape, rounded corners, or vertical orientation.

4. Organize your information.

Your business card should give customers everything they need to quickly contact you how they feel most comfortable, whether online or brick and mortar. Besides your name and job title, add your business name, telephone number, website, email address, and social media handles. When you're adding your information to your business card, consider how you lay it out. Each piece of info should be distinguishable but flow nicely with one another.

5. Do double duty.

Make your business card work twice as hard for you. Use the reverse side for appointment reminders, loyalty stamps, or as a blank canvas to showcase something about your business. For example, if you run a restaurant or cocktail bar, include a short recipe for a signature dish or drink. Do you sell handmade goods? Use business cards as tags for jewelry, clothing, accessories, and other crafts.

6. Maximize your logo.

Your card is more than just your contact information – it's a representation of you and your brand. Before you think of creating new business cards, there are two crucial design components to consider: your finalized logo and your brand colors. These elements are the essential parts of your visual branding and will help influence other areas of the card design process.

7. Leave some white space.

Don't clutter your card with too much text – if there are too many elements on the card, they'll all compete for the reader's attention, and nothing will stand out. Design-wise, a little white space is easier on the eyes, and it can help draw attention to the essential details. The fewer elements you have, the more impact each will make – so think about how you can clear the clutter to leave a lasting impression.

8. Add something special.

Special finishes can go a long way in making a lasting impression on potential customers, partners, and clients. One easy way to make your card stand out is to add an unusual design element or special print treatment. Foil accents add a touch of sophisticated shine, while embossed gloss creates a raised, glossy coating, giving your cards a hard-to-forget 3D feel.

Paper stock is another way to add something special to your business card. The extra-thick paper adds an instantly luxurious touch, while recycled kraft paper lends an organic feel.

9. Include a call to action.

A CTA isn't a business card requirement, but it can encourage potential clients to take that next step. Whether it's a special offer, a helpful tip, or a discount code, create an incentive around your business to energize customers. It's one additional way to send people to your website, subscribe to your mailing list, or give them a special promotion.