Calling cards have made a fashionable reappearance in our fast-paced 21st century lives. It is far more casual yet refined to give during social occasions. These cards will help remind people of new acquaintances. It can almost be viewed as a way to brand your social identity. They are the perfect personal introduction for those occasions when a business card is too business-like. What is a social calling card? A visiting card, also known as a calling card, is a small paper card with one’s name and personal details printed on it. What is the history to a calling card? They first appeared in China in the 15th century, and in Europe towards the end of the 16th century. The footmen of aristocrats and of royalty would convey these visiting cards to the servants of their prospective hosts seriously introducing the arrival of their owners. In formal Victorian times, they were used when making introductions and home visits. The difference between a calling card and a business card… During the heyday of calling cards, using a business card for a social purpose was considered bad manners. Today, while business cards are great for making business contacts, they still aren’t really suited for social situations. They probably have your work number and work email, and not much else on them. Think of all the times you meet someone you’d like to see again. Handing them a business card is too stiff and formal. Ditto for simply having them put your digits into their phone. What do I put on my social calling card? Your blog or website address; Twitter username; Facebook or Myspace name (if it’s different than the one on the card); Email address; Instant message name and mobile number. Social Calling cards in 2011 and beyond? Essentially, social calling cards are just like business cards except they don’t “state your business”. They simply have your name and contact information. This is a much more stylish way of presenting your details as opposed to scribbling your name and personal email address for people. Often there are instances where you would like to give people your personal contact information and keep business separate. Social calling cards are also useful while traveling. You can meet some wonderful people during your journeys and they make it very easy to exchange personal information. For Newlyweds, they are a great way to share your new name (if you went that route) and/or your new address. Because there are no rules for today’s social calling cards, they are great avenues of self-expression. These can be less serious than your business card.
Elsje Designs is a Graphic Design Studio with a passion for décor and design, created with love in Stellenbosch. Studio +27 (0)21 882 8010 or (0)83 253 5556 or email elsje@elsje.co.za
Pushing the envelope with trendsetting ideas
Elsje Designs creates fun & functional gifts, stationery and table decor with a true South African touch
Monday, April 11, 2011
Distinguish yourself with Social Calling Cards
Calling cards have made a fashionable reappearance in our fast-paced 21st century lives. It is far more casual yet refined to give during social occasions. These cards will help remind people of new acquaintances. It can almost be viewed as a way to brand your social identity. They are the perfect personal introduction for those occasions when a business card is too business-like. What is a social calling card? A visiting card, also known as a calling card, is a small paper card with one’s name and personal details printed on it. What is the history to a calling card? They first appeared in China in the 15th century, and in Europe towards the end of the 16th century. The footmen of aristocrats and of royalty would convey these visiting cards to the servants of their prospective hosts seriously introducing the arrival of their owners. In formal Victorian times, they were used when making introductions and home visits. The difference between a calling card and a business card… During the heyday of calling cards, using a business card for a social purpose was considered bad manners. Today, while business cards are great for making business contacts, they still aren’t really suited for social situations. They probably have your work number and work email, and not much else on them. Think of all the times you meet someone you’d like to see again. Handing them a business card is too stiff and formal. Ditto for simply having them put your digits into their phone. What do I put on my social calling card? Your blog or website address; Twitter username; Facebook or Myspace name (if it’s different than the one on the card); Email address; Instant message name and mobile number. Social Calling cards in 2011 and beyond? Essentially, social calling cards are just like business cards except they don’t “state your business”. They simply have your name and contact information. This is a much more stylish way of presenting your details as opposed to scribbling your name and personal email address for people. Often there are instances where you would like to give people your personal contact information and keep business separate. Social calling cards are also useful while traveling. You can meet some wonderful people during your journeys and they make it very easy to exchange personal information. For Newlyweds, they are a great way to share your new name (if you went that route) and/or your new address. Because there are no rules for today’s social calling cards, they are great avenues of self-expression. These can be less serious than your business card.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
1 comment:
Great post. As a college student trying to get a job in social media, I agree with everything you said, especially making things personal. If I don't know the name of the person behind the account, I generally would feel disconnected and probably not apply for a job at that company.
Post a Comment