But don't underestimate the power of the business card and what it can do for you.

A business card is you when you can't be there and portrays the personality and image of your company. A well-crafted card can be the difference between success and failure.

The following 10 tips will explain how to design a business card that will serve as an effective sales and marketing tool, while properly conveying your company's mission.

Business Card Tip #1: Customize and Create

Business professionals and consumers see numerous business cards during their travels so make your card a memorable one. Put on your creative thinking cap and customize every detail of your card according to the audience you are marketing to and the services you are marketing. Anyone can hand out a cookie cutter business card but the professional who expresses their organization's message and personality through their card will have the edge on the competition. Unlike the old days, cards can now easily be customized online so you won't have to leave your home or office.

Business Card Tip #2: Avoid Flimsy Cards

The weight and texture of your card is the first thing someone notices when a business card is handed to them. Handing out thin, flimsy cards will signal that you put little thought and even less effort into the development of your card. Use high-quality cards with a glossy or matte finish for a sharp look that will call your audience to action. You can also use vertical business cards to stand out among your competitors.

Business Card Tip #3: Use the Back of Your Card

It's important to leverage your business card as much as possible so use all available space including the back. While the backside content should be secondary in importance to contact information, options include coupons, calendars, appointment cards, product information, customer testimonials or quotes from your company's leader. Business cards are small and supply us with limited space but it is important space. Don't waste it.

Business Card Tip #4: Add a Face to the Name

Adding your photo to a business card can be a great way to build professional relationships, especially if you're working in an industry such as real estate where the personal touch is important. Trust is a key to a lasting and profitable business relationship and giving your organization a face can help this along.

Business Card Tip #5: Don't Forget the Basics

It may seem obvious but some professionals fail to list all necessary information on their business cards. The basic elements of a business card include name, title, company name and URL, and all contact information including fax number. Try not to list more than one phone number on your card as too much information causes confusion. Lead with your company's name and space permitting, include a clear, concise positioning statement or tagline.

Business Card Tip #6: Colorful Cards

The color of your card should be tailored to the type of business you represent and your target audience. Warm and inviting colors such as blue and white are perfect for a doctor's card, while an artist or entertainer may go with a black card to show off their off-beat creativity. Make sure your cards are full-color to cast a bright, eye-catching image. Avoid using hard-to-read yellow business cards.

Business Card Tip #7: Different Cards for Different Folks

Businesses marketing to a wide-ranging audience should consider creating more than one business card designs for their personnel. For example, a floral business could tailor one card to target the wedding industry and another for the funeral industry. Your company needs to be all things to all people so why not have multiple card designs when you have to influence very different audiences with very different needs? The small amount of money spent developing the additional cards will pay for itself in the form of the extra business gained.

Business Card Tip #8: Font Size Matters

Never use font smaller than 8-10 point on your business card. Cards that have its readers reaching for eyeglasses will only cause frustration. While it's great to be stylish, avoid using an ultra fancy font that's on the verge of being illegible. Make sure the print on your card blends properly with its background color and design.

Business Card Tip #9: Brag About Yourself

Tell the world if you or your organization has won awards. Proudly list any awards on the front or back of your card as it can only enhance your contact's interest in doing business with you. Whether you are a M.D., L.M.H.C., or PhD, list your qualifications and educational status. It won't take up much space and it will signal that you are knowledgeable and experienced.

Business Card Tip #10: Don't Break the Bank

Business cards are worth every penny but you don't have to spend a chunk of your marketing budget on them. Search for free business card offers and enlist the services of a company that can produce high-quality yet affordable cards. If you're a small or home business owner, work with a company that allows card orders in small business-friendly quantities.

Now It's Time to Put Our Business Card Tips Into Practice

No matter your budget, these simple tips will enable you to create business cards that put yourself and your organization on the profitable road to customer retention and acquisition.