The business card format refers to how some specific information should be placed on a card to deliver a message to the targeted audience. Once the logo, content and type style is decided for your business card then you need to see how you are going to position it on the card.

Many businessmen overlook the significance of a business card. If a well created business card presents information in an appropriate way it can massively boost business for all types of big and small companies. A business card is the best way for networking and advertisement, so while designing a business card we should ponder all the key elements very carefully.

Before designing any document we must determine which format it should be in. While designing a business card, placement of the information matters a lot. Simply getting a good logo designed or selecting a stylish typeface will not work to make your business card impressive. All the information and visual effects on the card must be combined to be presented in the most appropriate manner.

The most typical business card formats are:

• Horizontal Format: The most common format used for business cards is the horizontal format. It is believed by the designers that it is easier to inject creativity in a business card with horizontal format. This format is very useful when we need to give information on both sides of the card.
• Vertical Format: The vertical format is considered very traditional and conservative. It looks slightly awkward when we place the name and address vertically on a business card. The ratio between horizontal and vertical cards is probably around 80:20.
• Square Format: The square format is not very commonly used for business cards because not much space is left for writing the content.
• Large Format: Large formats for business cards are specially used by big companies when they apply more graphic techniques. Other than an enlarged logo the designers can also display the company’s picture to create a good impression. Large formats give a very crisp and clean result of the images.
• Double Sided Format: Now days a number of business cards are two sided. Businessmen get the chance of giving more detailed contact information by using both sides of the card. The front creates a visual impression with the logo and text in stylish fonts. The reverse side can be used to mention the company’s offerings and accomplishments.
• Folding Formats: Folding formats for business cards are also used by the bigger companies. They put more information regarding their company’s achievements other than just contact details.

Never forget that first impressions are of great significance and business cards create a professional and memorable impact every time. Your business card is often the first promotional material a person receives from your company. It makes people remember you, so always try to put the content very innovatively on the business card and choose a business card format that is most effective.