More and more professionals and businesses are jumping from paper to digital when it comes to business cards, but not all digital business cards are created equally.
To help you pick the perfect digital business card for you or your business, we are breaking down the top seven things you should consider before deciding.
Seven things to know before creating a digital business card
1. Functionality
Before creating a digital card, evaluate the features offered by the platform. Do they only offer business cards? Or are there added tools like email signatures, virtual backgrounds, and a built-in contact manager? Check what information can be added to a card, like videos, PDFs, and more, as some platforms offer simple contact details and a few links, while others allow complex media-rich interactive cards.
2. Sharing options
How you share your digital business card looks different than swapping paper cards, and not all sharing methods are created equally. When choosing a business card provider, look for sharing options that fit how you network. Common options include sharing via QR code, link, email, and text but don’t forget to look for additional options like Apple Watch, Apple Wallet, widgets, email signatures, virtual backgrounds, and more.
How you send your card isn’t the only thing to consider, it’s also important to know that the person you share with can receive your card even if they don’t have the same platform you choose. Look for options that don’t require an app to share, and allow the receiver to save your information directly to their device. Another important thing to look for is platforms that allow the recipient to send their information back to you.
3. Security
Your data is just that, your data, so before signing up with a business card platform, ensure that they take security seriously. You want to ensure your data and connections' information is safeguarded. Only choose a business card solution that states they do not share or sell your data, and look for SOC 2 Type II certifications.
4. Cost
One of the best benefits of digital cards is the savings that can come without printing costs. Many digital business card platforms offer a free tier for basic users and subscription plans for power networkers and teams. Compare the pricing structures with the features offered to determine the best value for you.
See the true savings of going digital in this cost analysis.
5. Sustainability
Digital business cards aren’t just good for your wallet. They also benefit the environment. Unfortunately, not all digital options are as green as they appear. If you’re looking for the most sustainable option, avoid NFC cards and tags that are often less environmentally friendly than their paper predecessors.
Learn more about the environmental impact of digital business cards in this sustainability report.
6. Return on investment (ROI)
One of digital cards' biggest benefits over traditional paper cards is the ability to see their impact on your business. Digital cards can be an incredibly powerful lead generation tool, and many digital business card solutions have built-in analytics so you can track that impact. See exactly how often your card is viewed and saved and how many connections you’re making.
Learn more about the ROI of digital business cards in this ROI deep dive.
7. Market signal
More and more business card trends have been popping up, and it’s important to pick a business card that will continue to have an impact long term. While things like NFC cards and gimmicky specialty cards might be fun in the moment, digital business cards are here to stay. Don’t believe us? Even Apple is moving towards a digital ID card.
Choosing the right business card solution can be overwhelming, but leveraging these seven factors allows you to select the perfect platform for you or your business. If you’re unsure what solution is right for you, we suggest trying HiHello digital business cards.
HiHello is the industry-leading digital business card solution for everyone, from individuals to Fortune 500 companies. With HiHello, you can…
- Create highly customized and dynamic digital business cards with unlimited information and media-rich content.
- Share your digital business card anywhere, with anyone.
- Trust that your data is secure with enterprise-grade security.
- Get more features for less with tiered pricing that works for you.
- Help make a positive environmental impact with a 100% digital card.
- Access built-in analytics, or dive deeper by connecting to Google Analytics.
- Showcase the best of your brand with custom branding across every interaction.
Want to learn more about HiHello? Find our plans and everything that’s included on our pricing page.
