There is an ongoing debate in the business world over the relevance of business cards in today’s digital age. It’s tempting to think that having business cards isn’t important anymore since everything we do is online or on our phones. However, business cards are a great marketing tool to leave a lasting impression on potential clients.

To help you understand the power of a well-designed business card, we’ve rounded up the top 5 reasons why we believe business cards are still relevant.

1. It’s a physical reminder to follow up

Networking events or meetings are the perfect place to meet a lot of people, some of which might even be potential clients. You develop that instant rapport with them and hope they’ll follow up but chances are they’ve already forgotten you a few days after the event. That’s why when you meet someone at a networking event or in a meeting, exchanging business cards is so important. It helps the other person match your face with your name. Also, when you hand out your business card, you are giving them a reason to follow up with you and a call to action.

2. It’s an effective, low cost marketing tactic

Your business card can also serve as an effective, low cost marketing tactic. You can direct potential clients to your website, LinkedIn page, or Facebook account without paying for online ads.  A thoughtful design and message on the card itself can also help promote your brand and services.

3. It’s the first touch point of a consistent brand experience

A business card is a powerful branding tool. With the right design and message, it can help differentiate you from your competitors and keep you top of mind for the recipients. Most people hold onto especially interesting business cards, providing a tangible reminder of your brand long after your interaction is over. When you meet someone that could potentially be a great prospect or connection, don’t you want him or her to walk away with a great first impression? A memorable business card does a lot more than just pass on an email address or phone number.

4. It creates legitimacy

The biggest benefit of having a business card to hand out is the legitimacy it lends to a company. An entrepreneur without a business card is like a company without a website. It’s just not normal, and people will view it as unprofessional. Becoming an industry thought leader is essential, and creating legitimacy is the first step in the process.

5. You will empower your team to be brand advocates

Your team members should be champions of your brand so help them help the business by equipping them with business cards to leave behind when they’re networking. They might only give a handful out, but that’s a handful of people that might not have heard about you before: a handful of people that are getting the first taste of their own consistent brand experience with your company.

At the end of the day, your business card may be one of your first impressions but it can also be your last since many of these connections you may never see again after the initial meeting. How does your business card stack up? Does it portray your brand well? Maybe there’s a way to reimagine it and delivering something unexpected. We’d love to brainstorm on it with you!