With so many businesses communicating digitally, business cards may seem old fashioned. Many tech-savvy professionals will want to plug your information into their Blackberry or iPhone, but the fact of the matter is cards are still an essential part of networking and marketing. The face-to-face process of exchanging business cards is still a necessary and viable part of the networking process. Abandoning the business card would be like abandoning regular mail in favor of only using email, or only using your phone to text. Here are five good reasons (and one silly) to keep cards in your business arsenal.

1.  Good First Impressions – A well-crafted, individualized business card can speak volumes about you and your business.  Traditional cards with quality inks and paper will always make a good first impression, especially with more conservative clients.  But non-traditional cards are more and more popular.  Many business people see their cards as an opportunity to reflect their creativity through color and design.  For instance, a technology company might choose a design that is sleek and modern, perhaps on a plastic as opposed to paper stock; a wedding planner may prefer a more romantic style with a floral accent in a soft color.  Just be sure to keep the size fairly standard.  Your card still needs to fit in the rolodex!
   

2.  Convenience – You never know when you’ll meet someone who could turn into a client or customer.  Keeping cards on hand means you won’t have to borrow a pen and write your information on an old grocery receipt.  Not only do you appear more organized, but the person who receives your card is less likely to accidentally throw away your information.
   

3.  Professionalism – Not everyone is connected and willing to look you up online or in the phone book.  It shows respect for others that you provide them with an easy way to keep your contact information.
   

4.  Marketing – Today, many people choose to put more information on their business cards than just contact numbers.  A mission statement, business tips, certifications, etc. can help contacts remember who you are and what you do, especially if you meet during a busy networking event.  Many business people feel that the back of your card is usable space, a good spot for a memorable marketing message.
   

5.  Referrals – If you have a good business relationship with a vendor or service provider, give them some of your cards and ask for theirs. How many times have you been asked to refer someone to a good vendor, but you can’t remember their contact information?  Keeping a few of their cards encourages them to do the same for you.  
   

6. Fish Bowl Drawings – If you don’t have a business card, you can’t participate in the drawings run by so many restaurants and other businesses.  Who doesn’t want a free lunch?
   

Take the time to sit down with a printer and design a card that works for you and your business. Consider who your cards are intended to reach, and the type of response you want to evoke. Do you want your card to reflect your creativity? Try interesting folds or edges, colors, layout, and copy. Are you in a more conservative business? Go for a beautiful, readable font on heavy card stock with raised print. Many industries encourage you to put your picture on your card to help with brand-building and recognition; if you do, make sure it is professional and up-to-date.

Business cards are by no means a thing of the past. Today’s professionals view cards as one more way to connect with colleagues, make new connections, and add to their marketing plan.