In an age where so much of human interaction and communication takes place online, it’s natural to think that one of the simplest forms of offline connection, exchanging a business card, might be losing ground. But despite the many apps and digital tools designed to ‘kill the business card’, it’s anything but dead.
In 2015, nearly 10 billion business cards were printed in the United States alone. To put that in perspective, laid end to end they would measure around 833,000 kilometres and could comfortably circumnavigate the world more than 20 times.
The numbers suggest business cards are just as relevant today as they were 300 years ago.
Global digital print company, MOO, produces on average over 500,000 business cards every day worldwide, mostly for small businesses. With 4.5 million people employed in Australian small businesses in 2012-13 (approximately 43 per cent of private sector employment), the company is looking to Australia as its next priority growth market.
“Australia is an exciting growth market for us thanks to the large percentage of small businesses and entrepreneurs in the country,” shared Cathy Berman, the international director of marketing at MOO.
“Over the last two years, we’ve seen traffic from Australia more than double as more and more small business owners are looking for ways to stand-out and connect with customers in unique and engaging ways.
“Exchanging business cards has long been about much more than sharing information or contact details. There is a certain ceremony when two people meet for business, and the sharing of business cards is part of that etiquette no matter the industry or size of the company; there is always a great deal of pride in that exchange.”
She continues, “Business cards help to create a meaningful connection with another person, differentiate your business or idea in an increasingly noisy marketplace, and communicate your brand story.”
While business cards are still an essential tool used by businesses of all sizes, this is especially true for small or start-up businesses whose owners are less likely to be investing in advertising budgets and marketing themselves. Instead, they continue to rely on printed paper products, including business cards, to present themselves in the best possible way and drive customers to their products or services.
Djordje Dikic, CEO of tech startup, Palette, one of MOO’s Australian customers, explains why business cards are important to his company, “In this digital world, exchanging business cards is something physical and tangible and creates that first critical anchor for a successful business relationship.”
“Our personal approach and style is minimal and clear, and we represent that immediately with our business cards.”
Want more? Get our daily wrap delivered straight to your inbox! Follow Kochie’s Business Builders on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
We want to hear your thoughts. How are you marketing your business? Email us at [email protected]
Trending
Weekly business news and insights, delivered to your inbox.