Business Cards: Then and Now

Before embarking on to explain the relevance of business cards, it would not be out of place to first explain what really business cards are. Well, these are very small cards that have information about the individual or enterprise engraved on them. These cards are used by individuals who give it to people that they wish to have business or personal contacts with. The cards usually contain company name, address, which also includes, apart from the individual's name, address and in some cases educational and professional qualification, his Internet and e-mail information etc. Modern day business cards are mostly coloured.

Business cards, it must be noted, evolved from the good old trading or calling cards which, it is believed, was first used in China in the 15th century and then in Europe in the 17th century. The use of these cards, however, was confined mainly to aristocrats who used to give it to their servants to pass on to the concerned member of the family. With the passage of time, it became popular in the middle class as well.

Trade cards on the other hand came into vogue in England in the 17th century when it was used primarily by merchants. They were usually printed with maps so that the customer would know about the whereabouts of the merchant without any difficulty. Some trade cards also included the names of goods sold by the merchants.

Today, however, things have completely changed. Business Cards today in various designs and colour and at a very competitive price. They are extremely important for any businessman. They are a vital element for contacts, something without which no business can flourish anywhere.


About The Author:

Alexa is a successful relationship manager in a leading Public Relations firm. He has written many blogs and articles on how to enhance effective communication in the corporate world. Currently he is focussing on Business Cards as they are major tools of communication for a company.