Business cards don’t have the same presence they once did. These little pieces of card stock were once a vital part of professional networking, but they’ve become more of a niche item these days. So, should we consider the business card dead?

Not so fast! There was a time when it seemed that the business card was legitimately on its way out and social media was poised to take over as the business-connection solution. While some websites, such as LinkedIn and Facebook, have become popular networking tools, they certainly haven’t rendered the business card obsolete.

The business card provides a snapshot of your business to someone you may want to work with in the future. It’s an easy way to instantly hand someone your contact info — no fumbling around to find your smartphone or a relevant app. And that person will have a physical reminder of your name.

But in 2018, your business card can’t be boring if you want to catch someone’s attention. It needs to convey key information in a simple, professional way while also standing out. That’s no easy task. Here are a few things to keep in mind when designing a business card:

Have purpose. Before you order cards, decide how you will use them. Don’t invest in cards that are going to sit in a desk drawer for the next five years.

Keep the design clean. The idea is to capture the attention of the recipient, not overwhelm them. If the information on your card isn’t clear, the card is useless. Only say what is necessary — name, profession, contact info, and a brief description of the service you provide — and leave it at that.

Let your creativity shine. When you hand someone a well-designed business card — one that goes beyond a boring white rectangle — they keep it. Let your card reflect you and your business. Don’t be afraid to step out of the 2-by-3.5-inch box.

Need inspiration? Head over to YouTube and search “Tim’s Novelty Business Cards” or go directly to youtube.com/watch?v=r4IDLvwgDbU. You’ll be inspired in no time!