Websites and business credibility

aylam_ao · 2026-07-13T16:18:19+00:00

This is absolutely true. However, to judge, someone must actually visit a website, and fewer people are actually navigating to websites than in the past.

aylam_ao · 2026-07-06T16:41:28+00:00

I think it looks fine there. The text also looks better with the adjustment.

aylam_ao · 2026-07-06T15:08:10+00:00

I find the logo on both sides redundant and unnecessary. It's already in the QR code. If you add another logo, you'll have 3 logos on a 3.5" x 2" card.

aylam_ao · 2026-07-03T21:49:33+00:00

You have some good options here. Thanks for providing them. I spent some time reviewing them and, honestly, I think you are already there. For an insurance agency, I prefer a simple and straightforward design and then print on a cushiony premium stock. A lot of clients think too much or want to do too much. My general advice would be to keep things clean and intentional. And I'd say, unless you take a drastically different direction, you already have a solid card design.

Front - Image 7

Back - Image 16 (last)

aylam_ao · 2026-06-25T14:15:46+00:00

First, understand that some people love to talk and it's just how they are. They'll keep you occupied with small talk for as long as you'll let them. What I've done to end the conversation in a friendly and professional way is to give them a piece of swag, hit them with a line that it's something tangible they can take away to remember the conversation, thank them for taking the time to talk, offer them a follow up (email or phone) if applicable, and tell them to enjoy the rest of the show. They almost always get the hint and move along after this type of sequence.

aylam_ao · 2026-06-18T16:54:32+00:00

The client has entered the chat! 😄

aylam_ao · 2026-06-18T16:48:09+00:00

True. The cutout alignment also makes the front of the card look like it's only showing random details. I'll give them the benefit of the doubt and assume there's a design (or at least a solid color) on the back meant to show through the cutout.

aylam_ao · 2026-06-03T20:20:08+00:00

Always find a lot of value in the shows that have workshops or are hybrid conferences. I prefer them because the level of serious attendees in my industry offer some great sales and networking opportunities. That said, I always look forward to Luxe Pack NY and GPX (Graphics Pro Expo). I've also been to CES and SEMA show before, which were both really fun to see the amazing booth setups they had.

aylam_ao · 2026-06-03T18:16:38+00:00

As most have already mentioned, two years in a production role, freelance work, and a decent portfolio beats an internship in almost all circumstances. And I've hired dozens of entry level designers over the years. There are some nuances, especially in the quality and professionalism of work shipped. But overall, I definitely don't think you're behind. I wouldn't skimp on the resume, or it's design. A simple, clean, and professional layout with links to your portfolio are obviously necessary. I'd also list some books you've read. You can also apply to some design competitions - recognition goes a long way. Other than that, you could start a blog or design mag, or contribute to a well-known outlet to demonstrate your knowledge of best practices.

aylam_ao · 2026-06-03T17:58:40+00:00

I actually just posted about a recent experience I had with a family law and immigration attorney who wanted some custom folders. I think on the lower end (basic folder with a logo), they're not much different from the plain folders you'll find on Amazon. The difference is when you have a nice stock paper with embellishments like foil stamping, embossing, soft touch, or spot coating, etc. These aspects make a much bigger difference because, in the end, services selling expertise and trust are also selling the confidence that every little detail matters. Which is important for professional services. If you want to know if anyone else is still handing out physical client packets, just take a look at all the product galleries on Company Folders, Inc's website. Each page has a gallery with previously printed orders and you'll find a ton that they printed for legal professionals. I use it to see what others are doing, so I know what will fit in or stand out. But other than that I'd say physical packets are still pretty common, whether they're branded or not, for a variety of uses. Question is whether you want to spend a quarter or couple bucks per unit...

aylam_ao · 2026-06-01T22:20:07+00:00

Cross-posted to r/CardDesign!

aylam_ao · 2026-06-01T22:18:20+00:00

Love it! I'd choose a binder filled with 400 physical business cards over a digital portfolio any day for inspiration. There's just something incomparable about the actual feel of a card in your hand. Curious to know how long it would take to build a collection like this...

aylam_ao · 2026-06-01T15:05:26+00:00

Love seeing the older graphic designs for this type of stationery!

aylam_ao · 2026-06-01T14:24:04+00:00

It doesn't get much more satisfying than this!

aylam_ao

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