Guide to Digital Business Cards
I love my paper business cards.
There is something about exchanging cards after a networking event as it reminds me who I met and connect with.
Sometimes a physical card is not possible (or particle) – for example after a presentation when offering your contact details to the audience or if you simply do not have a card with you – this is when a digital card is useful to have.
A digital business card is also a good add-on to a printed card as it can contain up to date additional details that cannot fit in a small, printed space making the printed card a gateway to your contact details.
What are the benefits of having a digital business card?
Quick access for when you do not have your physical cards
Access to your details via a QR code at conferences
Easy to update
Help reduce paper waste
Affordable
Can provide more information and direct links to compliment your physical card (which can be minimal)
What should be included in a digital business card?
Professional Profile Picture
Your company logo
Branded (colours, fonts)
Your contact details
Click to call for phone or email
Social Media links
Link to website homepage
Booking link or link to enquiry form
How to get a digital business card?
Digital Business card app such as Blinq
Web based digital business cards (about.me, linkedtree)
Your website (for example customised Squarespace digital business card)
My design tips for a digital business card:
Design for mobile as this is how your card will be viewed in most cases.
Keep the information brief and to one screen with no scrolling (or at least have the most important information closer to the top).
Ensure it also looks good on desktop (you can create a dedicated desktop version on Squarespace)
Hide the page from search engines if you prefer not to share you contact details publicly.
How is a digital business card different from a links page?
A links page has a different purpose, it is there to offer links for those already connected with you (on social media) and includes links to your website, blog for more information and a call to action. A digital business card is purely your contact details and will encourage connection by providing contact details.
It is your personal contact page and not your business links page.
I recommend having both as both have different purpose.
My person Digital Business card & My Links Page
When and where a digital business card can be used:
QR code from a minimal business card
End of presentation
QR code on your phone for a networking event
Referrals – send link to card
Banner QR code (if sole trader)
