Welcome to the…
All week we’ll be going through everything you ever wanted to know about blog business cards. And I mean everything. Before we get to what you should have on your business cards, we should probably start with the why.
Why You Need a Business Card for Your Blog
One thing I heard said at Type A Parent conference last week was that if you’re serious about blogging then “treat your blog as your business.”
With that in mind, being a business means having a business card. Besides tossing them into fish bowls at your local Mexican restaurant (wanna win a free lunch?), here are some places where blog business cards really come in handy:
Conferences: Last week at Type A, I handed out at least 100 cards. Exchanging business cards with other bloggers at a blog conference gives bloggers a little something to remember you by. And don’t forget handing your business cards to all those brands you may want to work with.
Local networking events: Whether you’re looking for brands to partner with or just went for a learning experience (like a seminar), local networking events are the perfect place to pass out those fab cards of yours.
Mail with giveaway prize: While you probably don’t mail prizes directly to your readers often, you may have to at some point. Dropping in a business card adds a nice personal touch. Awwww, that’s sweet.
A surprise opportunity: You never know when you may meet someone you’d like to talk with again. A cool mom at the park, a business owner who happens to want to start a blogger outreach, a person you just met who happens to be a blogger. Give them your card!
What to Put on a Blog Business Card
There are TONS of things you can put on a business card, but what should you put on your business card? You’re gonna hate my first answer but it’s important so listen up: it depends on your blogging goals.
You know, those goals “the experts” keep telling you to define? Yep, those.
Before you work on your business cards you need to decide what you want. More followers? More writing gigs? More brand opportunities? It can be more than one, too. Just spell it out and let that guide you.
{The Have-ta Haves}
Despite the fact that I just said “it depends,” there are some things that MUST be on your blog business card.
Name
Obvious, right? People need to know who you are. If you don’t use your full name on your blog, a first name is okay. And if you don’t use your name on your blog? Well, people still need a way to address you. Try a pseudonym or nickname or some sort.
Website URL
Why do you even have these cards? Well, for your blog of course. A few pieces of advice when listing your blog URL:
- Leave off http://. It’s the 21st century- people know that a URL has that in front of it. Plus, you don’t even have to type it into a browser these days. The browser will do it for you.
- Using the “www” is optional as long as your blog URL works without it. Now’s a good time to check.
- If you have a Blogspot or WordPress.com site, I’d leave the www off (again, check that it works). It takes valuable space away from the card and make it looks crowded.
Email Address
The easiest way for someone to contact you is your email address. Make sure it’s on there, peeps! You don’t want people having to hunt you down.
If you don’t have a bloggy email address but don’t want to use your personal one either, head over to Google and create a Gmail account or even better, a Gmail account that uses your domain name (if you own a domain). You can even set it up a forward to your primary email address if you want.
{The “It Depends” Things to Have}
Now that we’ve got the mandatory things out the way, here are some other bits of info you may want to show on your b-card:
Your Picture
It’s a good idea but it’s not necessary. The pro: It makes you memorable because often we can see a picture of someone and have it jog our memory of that great convo we had. The con: it can be overkill when you’ve got a card full of other bits of info and conflicting design elements (I doubt your picture matches your blog colors).
If you decide to use a picture on your card, keep it up to date. It’s useless to have your picture on there if your hair’s a different color or it’s from five years ago. If you decide not to put a picture, be sure to have a picture of yourself on your blog.
Phone Number
Again, it depends on your goals. It’s a staple in the business world so if you’re providing a business-oriented service (consulting, design, etc), you need to have a phone number listed. If you’re worried about privacy, set up a Google voice number to redirect to your personal number.
Title
A lot of bloggers worry if they need a title on their business card or not. If you’re the owner of one wonderful blog and just want to stick with blogging, you probably don’t need to say that you’re the “Founder” or “Owner.” It’s a given. However, if you’re the owner of a community-based blog, definitely consider it. If you provide business services you could say something like “Graphic Designer, Blogger.” Also, if you’re hoping to get into freelance writing, you could say something like “Writer and Blogger” or even simply “Writer.” Just don’t feel like you have to include a title.
Twitter Handle
I’ll get to other social media in a second, but Twitter is hands-down the most important social media network to be in if you’re a blogger. In fact, at conferences, most people introduce themselves as their names PLUS their Twitter names. No kidding. It’s just how people in the blogging community identify each other. So, while it’s not required, I’d strongly suggest having your Twitter handle(s) on your b-card.
Other Social Links (Facebook, LinkedIn, StumbleUpon)
Again, it depends. For example, if you’re a photographer who’s heavy into Flickr, then you may want to put your Flickr info on there. If you have a heavy Facebook following, consider adding that. Just be cautious not to overload your business card with too much information. Instead, funnel people through your blog for connections. Make your social media buttons obvious on your blog’s home page so someone can easily find all the social media places you’re hanging out at.
Location
If you can fit it in, consider listing your city and state. Why? Sometimes brands will want to hire bloggers for a campaign that live in a certain area. You make it easy for them to know where you live so they don’t have to dig around on your blog for it. It’s not crucial to have on your card but a few PR reps recommended it at the last conference I went to.
QR codes
What’s a QR code? Well, it’s this little square of awesome that people can scan with their smart phone. Once scanned, it leads to a web page with more information. That “more information” can be all sorts of things. Do you need one? Maybe not. Will you want one after Bloggy B-Card Week? Probably. I’ll have more on QR codes in both Wednesday’s AND Thursday’s posts so stay tuned.
Contributor Gigs
If you a regular contributor on other blogs or publishing sites, you may be tempted to list them on your card. While it does make you sound really important (in a good way), just be cautious in printing too many cards. You never know when these gigs may change (whether it’s from your doing or theirs).
Identifying Elements from Your Blog
You want your bloggy b-card to look mesh up with your blog design. If you have an identifiable logo for your blog, include it. If not, incorporate other strong elements of your blog into your design like signature colors, fonts, etc.
Taglines and Stories
What’s your blog’s tagline? Can you whittle down your story to a sentence? If what you say interests people, they may be more likely to visit your blog than someone who just says Adventuroo.com. You’ll see some examples on Friday but know that this can be a powerful if not overdone with too much text.
What if You Have More Than One Blog?
Here’s where it gets tricky, doesn’t it? First, it’s totally okay to have separate cards, especially if one is more geared towards business and one is more personal. But you may not want to hand out multiple business cards to people you meet, especially if you have more than two blogs.
For convenience, you can incorporate into one card. Just be careful not to make it too busy. If your blog designs are too different, try writing out your blog names in each blog’s fonts and choosing a simple color scheme.
If you have so much more to say, you can use a QR code to lead them to a page with all your blogs listed (again, more on that later this week).
Just Don’t Overdo It, Okay?
Take a deep breath. I just gave you over 10 things to possibly include on your blog business card. But for the love of all things holy, don’t put ALL of it on your cards. Remember your goals and how you want to grow. Then let that guide you. Simplicity will make a bigger impact than everything someone could ever want to know being crammed into a piece of paper that fits in the palm of your hand.
Where Can You Buy Blogger Business Cards?
UPrinting.com (where I bought my cards)
MOO Business Cards (this link will get you free samples so you can test them out)
Tiny Prints (lots of great templates)
By the way, a few of these links are affiliate links but I hope the content I provided was worthy of a click.
This post was part of a week-long series of blogger business cards. If you want more b-card goodness, check out If That’s Your Business Card, I Can’t Wait to See Your Blog, Seven Trends in Blogger Business Cards, QR Code Ideas for Business Cards and the Blogger Business Card Showcase.
Momcomm gives blogging chicks practical, can-do tips for writing, blogging and using social media (and sometimes a snarky rant).
I'm a mom who loves marketing, photography and all things social media. I have two boys whose claim to fame is that they were born on the same day... three years apart.
Twitter: JameeTMiller
says:
This is really helpful as I’m trying to plan out my b-card design! Hung up on whether or not to include my picture! Can’t wait to hear more about the QR codes!
Jamee @ A New Kind of Normal recently posted..Favorite 5: Finding My Style
Twitter: creatvieboomer
says:
Great article. Can’t wait to see the rest of the series.
Twitter: meagothystompy
says:
Great advice! Just wish you posted this last week. My business cards are probably on the delivery truck and I want to revise them already.
If possible, could you address whether 2 sided cards are a good idea? I was thinking of using the backside of my card to list the different blog sites I run.
Love your blog. Best RSS feed I’ve followed all year.
deadponies recently posted..Sunday, July 3: Aristocracy Ball at Malediction Society
Definitely– I actually plan to talk about them on Wednesday because they are definitely a trend!
And HUGE bloggy thanks for the compliment- it’s one of the nicest ones I’ve ever been given!
Twitter: reallifesarah
says:
Great tips, Melissa!!
Real Life Sarah recently posted..Have Breakfast with Me and Ovaltine Friday!
Oh, I’ve been waiting for this! Thank you for the great info, Mel. As someone who has never even been handed a bloggy card, I seriously want mine to be good before I head to BlogHer!
I thought of you as I put this together… I wanted to live up to your expectations! Hehe.
I’m sure yours will look SUPER.
Twitter: livingonpeanuts
says:
Thank you for this post! I had business cards printed when I started my blog and I think I did a pretty decent job. Now, I just wish I had my Facebook page and Twitter handle on there. Oh well, when I run out I will revamp!
Thanks!
Amanda
Exactly! It’s not a big deal. In fact, I saw some bloggers this past weekend writing their Twitter name on their card before they handed it over.
You are awesome and brilliant! What great tips! Loved meeting you this week
Tina @ Life Without Pink recently posted..Advice for Moms of Boys {from the other side}
I loved meeting you as well. I’ll be emailing you later this week, girl.
Twitter: StaceyNerdin
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I’ve been through so many generations of business cards, it’s not even funny.
And even this time around, I added a QR code sticker at the *last minute* (like…10 minutes before leaving for my flight) that leads to a portfolio site listing ALL my social media activities (’cause heaven knows it won’t fit on one business card!).
I thought it was interesting that a PR panelist at Type A recommended leaving some white space on your card for people to take notes. And sure enough, I had a few PR people write things down on my card as we were talking. Helps them remember how to differentiate you from the crowd, I guess.
Stacey Nerdin @ Tree, Root, and Twig recently posted..Book Review & Giveaway: Super Diaper Baby 2, by Dav Pilkey
Twitter: allthingsfadra
says:
As Melissa and I were chatting about business cards on the ride home yesterday, we pulled out a few examples. I have to say, your card was one of my very very favorites!!
Fadra recently posted..Stream of Consciousness Sunday: I am a foil wrapper
Yeah I didn’t really think of that but it’s so true! Fadra is mentioning it in tomorrow’s post– it’s a great point to consider!
Twitter: amybhole
says:
Great post. I just got new cards for Type-A, and it’s the first time I’ve been really pleased with the info and design. Blog cards are tough to get right, so thanks for the info.
Amy B. recently posted..My Obligatory Type-A Conference Prep Post
This post is awesome! Can’t wait to hear more about the QR Codes!
Twitter: coffeepotchron
says:
Great post! I probably should update mine but I dread spending more money when there’s still a huge stack of cards still sitting on the counter. Unfortunately, I just haven’t had any real opportunties to hand them out and I can’t afford to attend conferences (boo!). Regardless, I always keep a small stack in my business card holder in my purse for those “just in case” moments. Even though I’d rather not spend the green, I just might if it becomes necessary. *crossing fingers*
Kim @ Coffee Pot Chronicles recently posted..Farmer’s Market Sunday
I totally get that! If you have space, maybe add a little sticker with a QR code on it (I’ll talk more about those on Thursday) that leads to more updated info about you. I saw at least one person who had done that and it looked okay, especially knowing her cards were older and QR codes are the new hot thing.
Twitter: kristalswan
says:
Thanks for this! I seriously JUST LAST WEEK got new business cards. I think I got the right info on there, although perhaps I should have included my phone number…
I only ordered 50 to try them out, I may redesign when ordering more.
Krista Swan recently posted..New cards
You’re welcome! I don’t think a phone number is essential but since I do traditional marketing too, I know some companies who may need my help may prefer to pick up the phone as a first interaction. Thanks for stopping by!
Twitter: EverythingEvie
says:
Great info, Melissa! I’m so jealous you went to Type A! I totally wanted to go, but couldn’t take the time off work. (Dang mortgage!) I like your business cards, that’s pretty much what I’ve got on mind too. I loved the QR code idea a lot and will likely redo my cards when I run out. I think it will be soon, I gave SO many out at Bloggy Boot Camp, I only have about 20 left! I saw the QR code was the big trend at BBC Boston too! Can’t wait to see what you have to say about them!
Eve @Beautiful Spit Up recently posted..Wild Maine Blueberry Cobbler Recipe
Thanks Eve! Yes, QR codes can be so fun! Maybe we’ll get to exchange cards one day!
Twitter: CheleChestnut
says:
Love these tips! Hey I see my card in the pile! LOL. Can’t wait to read the rest! Now, I have to say one thing… I put my phone number on my first cards I ever ordered. I did not this time because I thought about it and I don’t want surprise calls like that. Mainly b/c I hate the phone! lol. But I always give my number to those who need it after talking with them online. It was wasted space for me to add it this time around!
Chele recently posted..Pops and Fathers
Oh yes, yours is there! It’s one of the prettiest ones I saw.
I went back and forth with phone number and the Twittersphere convinced me I needed it since some businesses would want to talk in person first (maybe they want to get into social media but aren’t comfy online yet). Anyway, I think if you hate the phone then not listing it is perfect!
Twitter: allthingsfadra
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I can’t wait to read about this all week (and write too). My only comment goes back to the photo. If you choose to use one ANYWHERE (blog, card, Twitter), please make it remotely resemble what you look like. No Glamour Shots please
Fadra recently posted..Stream of Consciousness Sunday: I am a foil wrapper
Haha oh yes. None of those.
Twitter: thehhhousewife
says:
Great info! I felt like I did okay for my first time making cards but I also know I can do better. I hope that as my blog (and I) evolve I can incorporate some of the extra things you mentioned here. What did you think of the “no shiny cards” comment from the conference?
Also- I had so much fun meeting you!
You too girl! Stay tuned for an email from me sometime this week!
About the no-shiny cards, I’ll address that on Wednesday when I talk about trends!
Awesome! Getting ready to design some cards for my new site…can’t wait to see all the fun from this week.
Erin L. recently posted..A Busy Week – Potty Training and No Sleep
Twitter: alexcampbell11
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Really looking forward to learning all about business cards.
Two questions
1. You may cover this later but I did a business card for an event I did & I wanted to go with something a little oversize. Can’t remember exact dimensions but it was in between business card size & postcard size. Do you think that a regular size card is better or larger {or different shapes} or does it matter?
2. I currently use Gmail for my blog email, but I {think} my host provider game me my own domain email. Does it lend more credibility if use your own domain email or no?
Thanks!
Alexandria recently posted..under the banner of me
Hey girl! Thanks for stopping by and asking some questions!
1. I’d suggest staying away from oversized cards. Some people like to put cards in b-card folders and they won’t fit. Even more important, when you’re collecting lots at one time (conference, seminar, etc), it doesn’t fit in their stack and may get tossed aside. On Wednesday, I’ll show you a cool option though for a folded card I saw a lot of at Type A. May be something perfect for you!
2. In my post there’s a link to set up a domain email through Gmail. For example, melissa@momcomm.com is from Gmail NOT my host. I had a web developer tell me to do this instead of using the host’s. Plus I don’t know if you’d have any trouble if you ever switched hosts. With gmail’s domain email, it wouldn’t be problem!
I am glad you brought up the multiple sites issue! I currently run two blogs, recently begun admin duties at another website, and I am considering starting a third blog with the hubs. That’s just too much and I am thinking the About.me cards w/Qr code linked to my page will be where that sort of thing that becomes uber handy!
Angela recently posted..How Ubisoft Tried To Kill Me
Yes, definitely! It’s a way to extend your card when you just have too much to say!
I can’t wait for the next installment! I’m determined to wait till the end of the week to order mine, then I will have super fantastic ones!
Twitter: Lindsay_Blogs
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How did I never notice that my NAME isn’t on my cards? Sure, it’s part of my blog name, but it doesn’t specifically say “Hi, my name is Lindsay.” Great, now I’m mad at myself lol
Lindsay recently posted..I hate cake. So much.
That’s too funny! Hey- if someone thinks your name is something other than Lindsay then, well, it’s their bad.
Wow! I love YOUR card!
Lindsey recently posted..Teach Anticipation and Foresight. Plan a Hike.
Thanks, girl! I’ll show you the full thing in Friday’s post!
Blogging business cards are a little overwhelming, and I’m scared to do the wrong thing! So a am OVERLY excited about the serious this week so I can make them *perfect*!!!!
Brittany recently posted..Some important things you missed!
Woohoo! Don’t get overwhelmed– remember it’s ultimately up to you what you think is important enough to put on there!
Great post; I’ll follow some of the advices for my non-blogging business cards! Love the QR code idea! What’s the scoop with double-sided business cards – to use or not to use? (Right now mine are double sided because of my bilingual market but always wondered if it’s not better to have two separate ones instead)
I’d say definitely use! I’ll be talking more about that on Wednesday because it’s definitely a trend!
Twitter: suzstreats
says:
Great timing as I’m planning to get the design for my BlogHer cards done within the next week or two. I’ve decided to have my current blog photo on them.
One of my BlogHer roommates just brought up QR codes last week. Looking forward to hearing more on them & whether I should fit them on my card!
Great post as usual Melissa!
Suz @ Suz’s Treats recently posted..Stepping It Up
Exactly– I knew BlogHer was around the corner so this series was timed this way on purpose!
how clueless am I that I did not know you could make your own gmail email with domain name? seriously….thank you for that info!
Great tips!
Twitter: KadburyIs
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Even though I’m pretty brand new, I had designed business cards and my husband surprised me on Mother’s Day by getting them for me. I included a lot of the stuff you mentioned (I love QR idea, although I didn’t incorporate that on my card. Next time!) and I can’t wait to see what other goodies you have in store for B card week! : )
That’s so sweet of him!
Twitter: msjennixoxo
says:
Love this post! I ordered business cards for BlogHer.. Your post confirms that I made good choices on what to put on them. I can’t wait for the rest of the b-card series!
Jenni Conner recently posted..C + D = ME
Thanks Jenni! And go you!
Twitter: mommybknowsbest
says:
Great post, thanks for sharing!! I have two separate cards for my websites for sure, and can’t wait to read more in this series…as I go through the hundreds of business cards I got at Type-A this weekend.
Jennifer B. recently posted..Comment on What Happened to The Fresh Beat’s Marina? by Anna
I know– my stack from Type A is quite… stacked!
Twitter: FashOrganized
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I find myself grappling with whether to eliminate FB page or not on my card. I’m about to print, so I’m not sure. I will say that leaving a blank space is a brilliant suggestion I didn’t even think of.
Candice @ Fashionably Organized recently posted..Having Fun With Shatter Polish
Great info! Can’t wait to see some examples! Thanks for sharing!
Karen Hartzell recently posted..Wordless Wednesday – Gymnastics
This is EXACTLY what I was needing! Thanks! Cant’ wait to see what’s next!
NotJustAnotherJennifer recently posted..This Little Light of Mine
Twitter: kimberlyj1792
says:
I never thought about getting cards made, but now that seems like a good idea.
Twitter: QueenJazie
says:
So much great information! i’m so excited to start my business card. I think I will opt to put my logo instead of a picture of myself. I am really curious to see what other bloggers business cards look like. Can’t wait for the rest of the series. Awesome job Melissa!! =D
Queen J. recently posted..Join The Magic!
Thanks, girl! There was so much variety at the conference that I’m sure you’ll see one that’ll provide some inspiration!
Twitter: allierambles
says:
Melissa,
These are the days I am so glad I am a procrastinator! ( Although, I may have to rush order them now.) I am going to Blogher in August and need biz cards. I was wondering about my Twitter handle and you answered that for me. I was going to use my favicon but I may use my gravatar picture now. If I can fit both I will.
Thank you so much for the tips!
~Allie
You’re welcome! Yes, I’d definitely recommend your Twitter handle. I often had to say it before it clicked as to who I was. LOL.
Twitter: HouseUnseen
says:
As usual, a fabulous post. Another bloggy friend just suggested I get business cards to make it feel like what I’m doing is “real”. I guess first I should think of some blogging goals, though
dweej @ HouseUnseen recently posted..I NEVER get sick. It’s true.
Twitter: JenniferAuer
says:
This information comes at just the right time. A few months back I was running a party business and a separate blog. Now I’m involved with several and I have been struggling with creating the ‘perfect’ business card. I am so glad my friends from PSMM shared this link. I can’t wait to order my business cards, but I am staying put for the week till I finish reading all of your great advice. Thank you.
Twitter: MyPixieBlog
says:
You have no idea how timely this is, as I’m meeting with a designer this week to go over some business card ideas. Thank you for a great piece!
Twitter: mrstdrapp
says:
I love this series. I found your blog through SITS and I am so glad I did. I have been blogging for over two years and haven’t been to any conferences-yet. As an average blogger, is having a card important? I’m not sure where I’m going with the blog. I’m not ruling out connecting with brands or companies, but I’m not there right now.
Twitter: enjoybirth
says:
Hmm, I have a business card for my birth business, which has my website (but not my blog address), I guess I should make blog specific cards for the BlogHer conference. Should I also mention the free book they can get while visiting my blog?
You have just inspired me to get new cards for BlogHer!
Twitter: twiceblessdlife
says:
Thanks for helping us out with the business cards. My last ones were so dreadfully amateurish, so I’m glad for the guidance for my new ones! Looking forward to the article on QR codes!
Twitter: AMomBlog
says:
I’m having trouble just trying to design one I don’t hate that will actually go with my blog.
When I had my parenting blog a few years back I had some free business cards done up by Vista Print. They were generic, I liked them at the time, but as my blog grew I had a logo created and wasn’t able to find an affordable site that would print only 100 at a time (didn’t want to invest too much money in case I didn’t use them.) I can’t wait to get my new blog up and running and getting some cute, professional business cards made!
Business cards are essential to the business owner who wants to make sure that his name and the name of his company is easily remembered. Networking is extremely popular and you don’t want to miss an opportunity to pass out your card to someone who might become valuable to you in the future.
Dear Melissa!!
Thank you for tips about business card for blog.
Great blog post! Your apparently practiced. I have book marked your website and standard business card dimensions!
Twitter: TheWineabe
says:
Thank you Thank you Thank you!! Was just talking about possibly making a business card…and honestly wasn’t sure if people did that for blogging or not! I’m so new to this whole bloggy thing….just trying to figure it all out. Thanks for answering my questions! Your blog is awesome…I’ve been trying to soak in all your great info.
Suzanne @ The Wine{a}be recently posted..Yikes! Stripes!
Thanks so much for the nice comment, Suzanne! Yes, a business card is a must if you are going places you might meet another blogger in person (or if you want to share your post with non-bloggers too)!
Glad you’re enjoying the blog!
Even if blogs are online I agree that it’s good to have some representation during offline gatherings.
Great ideas for business cards. The ‘putting your face’ on the card will be especially useful to real estate agents.
What a great breakdown. Business cards are a very important factor in marketing. Thanks for sharing!
Creative Pile recently posted..LETTERPRESS DOCUMENTARY
Business card for blog???
I have not understand. Please elaborate me your views about this. Other provided information is real good.
scratchfactory recently posted..An Unexpected Trove
Brand new to blogging. This was a great post and really helped me set up my business card. I signed up to follow. Looking forward to some more excellent blogging tips!