Artists spend a lot of time creating an online presence, building online portfolios, and creating elaborate media kits. . . but have you ever stopped to wonder about what your business card says about your business?
By creating a memorable business card, you give potential art buyers, collectors, and gallery owners a reason to hold onto your information—making it easier to look you up the next time they need a special gift, art for their newly decorated home, or last minute fill-ins for gallery openings.
When creating a business card for your art business, consider incorporating some of the following tips:
1. Include a headshot
Stephenie Foster, President of Strategies for Shaping Change, says, “I use a photo of myself to make the card more memorable. It helps people remember you and the conversation they had with you. I also use one of those photos on my website so that again there is a connection for people.”
2. Include a photo of your art
Pick one of your better selling prints, or an original piece of art from one of your more famous collections and include it on one side of your business card. If someone can’t remember your name or face, but remember your art, this can give them the reason they need to hold onto your card for future business.
3. Leave some blank space on the back
Harlan Goerger, of AskHG.com, says, “Keep the back of the card blank—or at least a part of it. It offers a great place for notes. When giving someone a tip, referral, or other information, you can hand them one of your cards to write the information down on. They’ll keep the card and connect you as a person of value.”
He also suggests that you avoid having the back of the card coated with a gloss or film, since it makes it more difficult to write on.
4. Don’t waste valuable real estate
Angela Nielsen, President and Creative Director of One Lily, says, “Sounds simple enough, but so many business owners are still using only one side of their business card. The cost to print a two-sided card is not much more than printing single side only. Use the back to promote your social media handles, a free report on your website, your favorite quote, or anything you can think of that will give your card more personality and make it stand out.”
5. Create business cards for specific purposes
Mike Capuzzi, of Persistent Marketing, says, “Have different business cards for different reasons—and know your ‘reasons why’ you need a specific card for a specific event. Ask yourself this important question: ‘When I hand somebody a card what is the one single action I want them to take?'”
Mike goes on to say, “Consider creating business cards where you make a special offer; offer a free report, CD or gift; create an invitation for joint-venture partners; or ask for referrals.”
6. Leave your best contact information
When adding contact information to your business card, choose the outlet where you feel most comfortable responding to your potential buyers and clients.
If you find email to be the best way to handle initial contact, leave your company email address. If, however, you find talking over the phone the best way to deal prospects, leave a number that allows you to answer the call in a professional manner.
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