Are Business Cards Still a Thing?
I love a business card for the simple fact that it can tell me so much in such a compact package. Not merely just the contact information printed on it, but the card’s construction itself—the paper selected, layout, any special attributes like die cutting, embossing, or metallic foils—has a direct impact on the visual storytelling of the brand and its company.
But with the ever-expanding digital space, are business cards needed anymore?
The Enduring Value of Printed Business Cards: Past, Present, and Future
Printed business cards have long been a staple of professional exchange. Once the mark of formality and social status in the 17th century, these compact tools evolved into essential branding assets during the rise of modern commerce. Despite predictions of their demise in a digital-first world, business cards continue to hold relevance—albeit with modifying expectations and evolving roles in branding and marketing.
Past: A Tangible Introduction
Traditionally, business cards served as formal identifiers, offering a name, title, and contact information in a concise, portable format. But beyond function, they carried design weight—paper stock, typography, and layout silently communicated professionalism, taste, and credibility. A beautifully designed card sets the tone for future interactions, making it a lasting extension of one’s personal or business brand.
Present: Branding in a Digital World
Today, digital tools—QR codes, LinkedIn profiles, and email signatures—augment or even replace some of a business card’s original utility. Yet printed business cards remain a tactile expression of brand identity. With rising interest in artisanal printing methods—letterpress, foil stamping, thermography—the modern card is often a miniature showcase of a brand’s visual language and values. For designers and marketers, we view business cards as a strategic touchpoint—one that can differentiate, delight, and be remembered.
A Little Proof Twenty years ago, a friend was working at a new tech firm and he gave me one of his cards—double-sided printing, die-cut, metallic paper, a nice logo, and a field of purple on the back with the tagline knocked out to show the paper—I still remember the card and the business name. The business is gone, but their brand endures.
Moreover, in-person exchanges—conferences, pop-ups, client meetings—still benefit from the immediacy and intentionality of handing someone a physical card. It signals preparedness and professionalism in a way a phone screen can’t replicate.
Future: Purposeful, Premium, and Hybrid
Looking ahead, printed business cards will likely shift from being a necessity to a curated experience. Fewer cards may be handed out, but those that are will be more meaningful—tactile, sustainably produced, and creatively designed to leave a lasting impression. Digital complements such as embedded NFC chips or dynamic QR codes will continue to bridge print and tech, allowing real-time updates while preserving the personal touch of print.
Ultimately, the viability of business cards lies not in sheer quantity but in intentional quality. As brands seek to create memorable human moments in an increasingly automated world, the humble business card—when used thoughtfully—retains both its charm and marketing power.
Thanks for reading,
Deb
As a side note, and an important one, some cultures find the exchange of business cards a mandatory business ritual. Not exchanging cards might be viewed as a sign of unprofessionalism or disrespect, so be sure to do your research before any events and meetings.
