Category Archives: Business Plan

What Title Should You Put on Your Business Card?

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Everyone knows how important it is to have a good business card on hand. Being the extension of your business or career, you need to make sure that you’re sharing the right information on your business card, and in a way that entices people to get in touch.

Along with your name and contact information, one of the most important details in your business card is your job title. Whoever’s reading your business card will need to know who you are, and how you’re related to the company you work for! But the question is, what title should you use?

If you’re an employee, this is pretty self-explanatory: it’s whatever job title is on your employment contract. If there isn’t one, or your role has changed since you were hired, you can always ask your manager or your boss what you should put as your role.

But if you own your business, or are self-employed, things aren’t quite as simple. Today, we’ll discuss what job title options you have for your business card, and how each one might affect people’s impressions of you.

What Are the Benefits of Having a Good Business Card?

Although most of the information sharing that we do nowadays is digital, the business card remains to be one of the best tools for promoting a business, a brand or a person. Here are some of the many benefits of having a business card:

1) It helps you create a good first impression. You don’t know when you’ll get the opportunity to introduce yourself to a potential client, business partner or employer. When that time comes, you need to be ready to create a good first impression and a business card allows you to do that.

2) It helps you build and expand your network. Whether you’re an employer or employee, it’s very important to grab every opportunity to build or expand your network. A simple business card is a great tool that will allow you to exchange contact information in a more formal way than sending an email or text.

3) It helps you create the right image. With a business card, you have complete control of the design and information that you’d like to share with people. This gives you the opportunity to create the image that you want people to see, and that helps you build yourself up for success – whether you’re applying for a job or trying to impress a client.

When someone has your business card, it’s easier for them to remember to reach out to you. But you’ve got to start things off on the right foot by thinking hard about your job title.

What Is the Right Job Title to Put on a Business Card?

Since a lot is riding on that small card that you’re giving away to people you want to connect with, it’s very important to know what job title you should put on your business card. This may sound simple, but a lot of people actually get this wrong. Here are some of your best options, and when it’s appropriate to use them:

President

This title strongly conveys authority, so you should only use it when you’re already an established entity. The term “President” can be interchanged with “CEO” and putting that on a business card means that you’re on one of the highest ranks in your office.
When choosing between the two options, it’s best to think about how you’d want your organisational structure to be as you grow your business, as well as your legal business entity.

CEO

Chief Executive Officer or CEO is a title that will instantly tell people that you’re in charge of your business. Most of the time, CEOs also own the company, so if you’re going to use this job title, you need to make sure that you’re already well established in the business and that you’re managing a big team of employees.

But if you’re just starting out as a business, it’s best to avoid using CEO in your business card, as this could convey that you want to pretend that your business is larger than it is, and that you’re a “big deal” – when you might not be quite yet!

Proprietor

This is the perfect job title to put on your business card if you’re just starting as a small business, especially if you’re in retail. Although “Proprietor” is an old term that refers to the owner of a small business, it’s still used a lot today because it conveys the right authority to someone who owns the business without sounding too cocky as compared to using CEO when it’s just a small company.

Owner

Nothing gets more straightforward than this job title. It’s more than appropriate if you’re a small business owner that hasn’t filed your organisational documents just yet.
The term “Owner” has lesser gravity than “CEO” or “President,” but it still gives people the (correct) impression that you’re an authority in your business as its owner. This option is also perfect if you’re a sole proprietor, or if you’re working with only a handful of employees.

Founder

Mark Zuckerberg, Jeff Bezos and Sir Richard Branson are just some of the many famous entrepreneurs who are called “Founders” by people within and outside their companies. A “Founder” is essentially the person who first started the business.
This title is used a lot these days, especially in the tech industry where there are a lot of start-ups that grow to become bigger companies within just a few months. However, you should definitely avoid using “Founder” if you took over an established business or you simply own shares in it. This would be disingenuous.

Administrator

The term “Administrator” conveys both authority and responsibility in the business. When you put “Administrator” on your business card, you’re telling people that you have authority in the organisation, but you also take care of core responsibilities that help with your day-to-day operations.

However, this may confuse people if you’re the owner as well, as someone can work as an administrator of a company without actually owning it. It’s a great option, though, if you don’t want to intimidate people and you want to emphasise the work that you actually do day-to-day.

Director

If you want to be more specific about the role you play in the business, but you still want to convey a sense of authority, you can choose a more descriptive job title such as Managing Director, Creative Director or Technical Director. Some professionals also write it as Director of Operations or Director of Production.
Again, this role emphasises that you have a senior role in the company, but conveys slightly more information about the day-to-day duties that you oversee.

Managing Partner

You could own a business and not necessarily hold a core position within its organisation. This is when you can use the title “Managing Partner” or “Managing Member” that conveys that you’re still involved with the decision-making part of your business, although you’re leaving the operations to people you hired to be part of your team.

So, Which Title Should I Choose for My Business Cards?

The great thing about choosing a title to put on your business card is that you can be as creative as you want, except when you’ve been given a job title by your employer. Make sure to consider different factors before choosing the right label.
Remember that people place a lot of weight on the information written on a business card, so it only makes sense that you use the job title that will allow you to set good first impressions.

Whether you choose to go bold with CEO or subtle with Proprietor, remember that you have to back it up with credibility and experience.
If you’re ready to start designing your very own business cards, a great place to begin is 123Print. Feel free to browse through our huge range of business card templates for some inspiration: we stock designs for a great number of vocations and niches, from solicitors to dog groomers.

When you’ve chosen your favourite design, our easy editor will allow you to upload images (such as your company’s logo), add your personal details, and change the font colour and style to your liking. Alternatively, if nothing feels quite right, start with a blank template and create your own design entirely from scratch!

Your business cards will be professionally printed to order in your chosen quantities, and dispatched to you within 48 working hours. And if for any reason you’re not happy with the way your cards turn out, we’ll replace your order until you are, free of charge. Take the first steps to business success today with 123Print!

Should You Bring a Business Card to an Interview?

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Everyone who has ever been interviewed for a job knows what a minefield it is. What do you wear, what do you bring, and how do you prepare? Every little thing you do in that interview room is going to impact how you come across, and how the hiring manager sees you.

One of the many contentious questions regarding the interview process is whether or not you should bring (and give out) your business card in an interview. So, should you, or shouldn’t you?

This guide will talk you through the benefits and disadvantages of handing over your business card at a job interview. We’ll also look at what information you should have on your business card, when to hand it out, and other important materials you should bring with you.

What Are the Benefits of Bringing a Business Card to a Job Interview?

There are several schools of thought on whether or not you should give out your business card at an interview. Not every interview situation is the same, so this is not a “one size fits all” scenario.

For example, a freelancer who has no affiliation with a particular business would possibly be right to give out their card, whereas if you work for a larger corporation and your business card reflects this you may think twice (although again it would depend on the circumstances).
Let’s start off by looking at all of the potential reasons why bringing a business card along to your interview would be a wise move.

1) Even if you are unsuccessful at interviewing for a certain position, the physical prompt of a business card may be enough to jog someone’s memory of you should another suitable position arise in the company.
2) A business card is a visual representation of your professional self and provides interviewers with a much briefer reminder of you than reading your CV. Your CV has already impressed them if you are at the interview stage, so your business card could be valuable in providing a reminder of your skills and contact details.
3) If you are a freelancer there may be other positions in the same company that would be a good fit for you. Your business card could prove to be a useful prompt for potential employers to keep you in mind for other positions.

Furthermore, business cards are a valuable networking tool. Aside from your interviewers it may be useful to have some with you in case you speak to anyone else who may be a useful contact while you are there for interview.

Are There Any Downsides to Bringing a Business Card to an Interview?

Some people believe that handing out business cards at interviews can come across as unnecessary and pushy. Is there a need to hand out your business card when the interviewers already have a wealth of information about you and your skills from your cover letter and resume? You are just handing out repeat information after all.
However, it is worth remembering that all interviews are different and different jobs have very different expectations in interviews.

If your business card reflects your position in your current company, you should only really hand out your card when you are in a situation in which you are representing that company. In some fields it may be considered unprofessional to hand out a card in an interview that represents your current firm, which you’re planning on leaving.
In this circumstance it may be a good idea to have a separate card with basic contact details on and which does not represent your current company.

When Should You Hand the Card Over?

If you have decided that the situation is agreeable to handing your business card out in an interview then make sure you find the right time to do this. The end of the interview before you say goodbye and thank your interviewers is probably the most pertinent time.

Gauge the mood in the room, and before you say your final goodbyes offer your card to the interviewers with a simple “Here’s my card – please don’t hesitate to get in touch”.
You may consider handing it out after you have asked your own questions. After all this is the part of the interview when the roles are somewhat reversed so while you have an element of control you can use that to your advantage.

What Should Be on Your Business Card?

Before you consider giving out your business card at an interview you need to ensure that your card has all the relevant information on it and that it looks professional. The style of your card will likely reflect the business you are in. For example, an accountant will have a very different card to a graphic designer.

Business cards should look streamlined and feature only the most essential information (e.g.name, contact number, email address, business address if relevant).
Your business card might also include a very short description of how you wish to be identified in your field. For example “[your name]: proof-reader and copy editor”.

Do I Need a New Business Card?

If you (like many people) are considering a change in career then you may want to consider creating a new business card that is separate to your current one, assuming your current card is related to your present field. Having a card that reflects the job or career you are aspiring to makes more sense than handing out one that represents you in your soon-to-be previous career.

On this card you should include contact information such as phone numbers and email addresses that are not related to your current position. Your private number and email would be more suitable in this instance.
It’s also a good idea to create a new, independent business card if your current one contains branding for the company where you’re currently employed.

What Else Should You Bring to a Job Interview?

Business card aside, there are some other essentials that you should definitely bring to an interview.

1) Copies of your CV. HR will obviously have a copy of your CV and will most likely have provided the interview panel with at least one copy to refer to, but there is no harm in bringing some with you out hand out if necessary.
2) Portfolio of work examples (if relevant). Bringing along a portfolio of relevant work is a valuable way to back up any references you make to your previous work during the course of your interview.
3) Pre-prepared questions to ask the interview panel. Potential employers want to see that you have thought about the job and writing out some questions avoids that awkward moment at the end of the interview when you are asked “so have you got anything you would like to ask us?” Having questions written out in advance means that if your mind goes blank in the heat of the moment you have some pertinent questions ready at your disposal.
4) Notepad and pen. You may need to write down notes and prompts as you go through the interview, especially if it likely to be lengthy. Doing this may help you when it comes to asking questions at the end of the interview.
5) Breath mints. Having fresh breath is a simple yet effective way of creating a good impression right off the bat – it shows you’re serious about your appearance and hygiene.
You should also bring a list of references (e.g. past employers and character references). You may not be asked for them at this stage, but it’s best to be prepared, just in case.

Where Can I Order Custom Business Cards in the UK?

Job hunting can be a trying time full of stress, self-doubt, highs and lows. Having an impressive business card will not only help you feel more confident, but it’ll also help your potential employer to see that you’re well-prepared and keen to make a good impression.
If you’re looking to design a new business card for your job interviews, look no further than 123Print. We’re a UK based printing company offering fully personalised business cards which you can design right from the comfort of your own home.

On our site, you’ll find thousands of full-colour business card templates suitable for every vocation and profession imaginable. We offer different card thicknesses, raised and embossed fonts, rounded or pointed corners and the ability to add text and images to the reverse of the card. You’ll also find templates in both landscape and portrait orientation.
We’ll dispatch your order within two working days, and our team are always on hand to fix any issues should they arise. Head to 123Print today to begin your business card journey!

Promotional Mug

8 Inspirational Uses for Promotional Mugs that You Haven’t Thought Of

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Promotional mugs are exactly what they sound like—ceramic mugs with customised images, logos, contact information, and quotes representing your business. They’re a great way to promote brand awareness with a personable touch.
Customisable mugs can also be used in a personal context. For example, you could upload a family photograph to a mug as a gift for a loved one, or simply to have something very personal to drink tea from!
The great thing about personalised mugs is that they’re tough, and designed to be used again and again. Unlike many other kinds of promotional material (such as flyers), they won’t be discarded after a single use. They’ll be cherished for years, if looked after correctly.
If you’re keen to discover how ordering personalised mugs could benefit your business, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together a list of 8 inspirational uses for promotional mugs that you might not have thought of.

1. Merchandise

Many businesses use promotional mugs within the office, but you might not have considered selling them as merchandise. If you’ve got a website where customers can purchase goods or services, why not let them add a company mug to their basket, too?
You could even offer the mug as a free or discounted add-on with orders over a certain amount. While it might sound counterintuitive to offer mugs for free (or for very little), you have to consider the benefits here. Your customers will have an incentive to order more from you than they otherwise would have, knowing that they’ll get a free gift out of it.
Another great benefit is that whoever buys your product will have a warm reminder of your brand in their kitchen. This will keep your business fresh in their minds, making them more likely to use you again. Sports Direct is an example of a company that already uses this amazing marketing strategy (with great success).

Promotional Mug

2. Welcome Gift Baskets

We all want to feel special. And there’s no better way to show someone that you think they’re special – whether it’s a customer, a repeat client, or an employee – than with a gift basket.
This idea for getting your promotional mugs out there might work particularly well with businesses with a membership or subscription service. Three month subscription? Here’s a gift basket containing a mug with the logo of the brand you love and support. What else? Maybe some coffee, hot chocolate, or a fancy kind of tea to enjoy in your new mug!
Even if your business doesn’t have such recurrent billing models, the gift basket never fails. After all, who has ever needed a reason to receive a gift? Maybe send it out with larger orders as a thank-you for your customers’ patronage.

3. Décor

This is more for our readers who own a physical store, or other place of business that allows customers to enter (such as a car wash or hairdressing salon). We’ve all seen mugs with the store logo printed beside registers, as placeholders on shelves, or available for customers to purchase.
Nowadays, more and more businesses are realising the importance of aesthetics. We see this applied to storefronts, logos, and décor throughout the shop. Many promotional mugs are used to advertise, and their success largely relies on the aesthetics of the design. Obviously, mugs are practical, but appearance matters too.
Make your personalised mugs look beautiful enough to be conspicuously displayed in your store or place of business, and your customers will notice. They might just ask for one to take home!

4. Host a Design Competition

You must have heard of big businesses that host competitions to allow customers to choose the latest products, or even name them. One of the most well-known examples of this is the crisp brand Walkers. Over the years, they’ve held several polls allowing their fans to choose new flavours of crisp to go on sale – whether taking suggestions from the public, or simply allowing them to vote on predetermined choices.
These kinds of competitions definitely get people talking about and sharing the company on social media. There’s no reason why you can’t do a similar thing, but with a company mug – allow your customers to submit their own design for it!
You could make it a children’s competition, or targeted more towards adult artists. Choose the winning entry yourself, or allow the public to vote – and have the final design printed on promotional mugs. Let your customers order them for personal use, and display them around the office proudly! (Just make sure you obtain copyright for the image before using it.)

5. Unconventional Uses

There are always people who don’t want more mugs in their homes. Here is where we circle back to the importance of a beautiful design and decoration.
Remember in tip #3 we discussed the idea of making your promotional mugs a decorative staple in your store? We can take it a step further by making unconventional uses out of them. For example, why not use your company mugs as succulent planters, or holders for dried flowers? For around the office, they can also be used as pen and pencil holders.
If you’re in the food industry, promotional mugs make great tip jars. You could also jump on the latest trend of “mug cakes” – take a promotional photograph of an employee eating a mug cake out of your company mug, and share it on social media! It’s all great fuel for brand awareness and recognition.

6. Parade Your Values

Sharing your company’s core values and beliefs, especially when it comes to social issues, is one of the best ways to gain loyalty. Today, there are so many opportunities to show what your business is about, other than making products and profits.
Do you value feminism? The Black Lives Matter movement? Perhaps you want your company to show its support for LGBTQ+ rights? You name it. Now put that on your branded mugs and let your customers know what you care about. You can even connect with one of the organisations behind one of the causes and make a fundraiser out of a mug sale.
Make a slogan for that cause side-by-side with your brand. Throw in that basket with hot cocoas and marshmallows in there, and that’s a promotional mug people are willing to buy.
It’s not just promoting your business, but a valuable cause for a better society. Now your business also has a conscience that connects with people.

7. Anniversary Mugs

Anniversaries make people excited and nostalgic. We celebrate anniversaries to remember special occasions marked by dates. Within a business, there are anniversaries around every corner.
So, why not add an anniversary series to your collection of promotional mugs? For example: employment anniversaries for your senior employees, customers’ birthdays, membership/subscription anniversaries, or even the anniversary of the day you opened your business. Give them away with a congratulatory email or a promotion, and your clients (and employees) will feel loved and appreciated.

8. Advertise a Promotion or Sale

Sales and special promotions are super important for almost any business – especially those that sell products directly to the public, whether that’s through the internet or a physical shop. The lowered prices draw in new customers, who then become repeat customers if they like what you offer – even when you put your prices back up.
Most businesses, when they want to advertise an upcoming or ongoing sale, will default to sending an email out to their mailing list, or advertising through social media. But emails end up in spam folders all too often, and when was the last time you really paid attention to a Facebook ad? Can you even remember the last ad you saw?
What if that advertisement, however, was on a free mug? I’ll bet you’d remember it then. Design a mug advertising your latest sale and hand them out for free – outside your place of business, for example, or on the street. Just check with your local council first!

Where Can I Order Personalised Mugs?

Everyone’s got a go-to mug that they’ll choose other any other for their hot beverage. There’s no reason your company mug can’t become your customers’, clients’ and employees’ favourite!
Order your personalised promotional mugs today through 123Print. Choose from dozens of single-image or wraparound templates – or create your own design from scratch. You can upload your own artwork and customise the text, font and colour to your liking.
Our easy editor is extremely simple to use, and you’ll be shown a preview of your mug so that you can ensure it’s perfect before ordering. With our 100% satisfaction guarantee, you can rest easy in the knowledge that you’ll love our products!

How to Build an Effective Business Plan

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For many people, writing a business plan is an absolute essential part of starting a business. For others, a futile piece of paper used only to help you gain investment. Whichever side of entrepreneur thinking you live on, the fact remains, that a business plan (even if it only spans a page or two) can always be the place where you can simply gain some clarity about your service, or more importantly set flexible objectives to measure your success and prevent any potential failure.

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