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How to Design a Business Card for the Unemployed

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Business cards are vital to the working world and to anyone considered a professional. In this regard, business cards are just as important to the success of the unemployed as to those who have an established career. Carrying and distributing a business card will supply the unemployed with a sense of confidence and an easy connection with potential employers. A business card representing someone who is unemployed is not all that different from any other business card and can be created and printed at home.

Develop a logo. Logos can be designed by a professional or as a DIY project, but the logo should represent who you are and what you do. For example, if you are an artist seeking employment, you could consider a paintbrush or an easel as a part of your logo. If you are seeking employment within the business world, your logo could simply include a monogram. Whatever logo you choose, make sure it is scalable and clear.

Use your business card as a connection to your resume. Upload your resume online, and provide a link to it on your business card. This can be especially helpful during chance encounters with those who could further your career, since it is unlikely that you will have a copy of your resume on you at all times.

Find fonts that are appropriate. If you are looking for jobs that are on a more professional level, consider classic fonts that are simple and subtle. If your aspirations involve creativity, a more nontraditional font may be allowed. Regardless of which type of font you choose, make sure that it is easy to read. In addition to choosing an appropriate font type, make sure to also choose a font size that is easy to see.

Choose a high quality card stock to print your business cards on. It is worth the extra money to avoid a low quality paper product. If your card is flimsy or looks too much like a homemade project, it may subtract from your perceived level of professionalism. By going the extra mile to choose better paper, you are sending a message to potential employers and investors that you are worth it.

Include an area of expertise. Most business cards include the holder's job title or position. Since your card is for you while you are unemployed, include a line, or even one word, that clearly states what you do or what you are good at doing. Give yourself a title such as "Gardener Extraordinaire" or "Marketing Expert." Consider using a series of descriptors to detail what you do.

Make your card stand out from the rest. Anything you can do to be memorable is important to finding a job. If you think your business card is too boring, then it probably is. Spruce up your card by changing simple things; for example, consider changing the shape of your design or incorporating color.

Ensure that your name is featured and highly visible. Use a different font or color to make your name stand out from the rest of the card. When a potential employer is searching through a stack of business cards, this will help his eye to stop on yours and remember your name.

Tip

If this is your first business card, take some time to look at other business cards for inspiration. It will give you a feel of what you like and what you're drawn to. It will also make it easier to design your own.

Resources
Tips
  • If this is your first business card, take some time to look at other business cards for inspiration. It will give you a feel of what you like and what you're drawn to. It will also make it easier to design your own.
Writer

Lacy Nichols is a graduate of Appalachian State University in Boone, N.C., where she earned a Bachelor of Science in communication and English. She has written and produced several radio advertisements and commercials, with publications in several literary magazines as well.

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