Why This Matters
In the past, networking events were dominated by paper business cards — a quick handshake, a card exchange, and a polite follow-up email. But in today’s fast-moving, tech-driven world, those little rectangles of paper are losing their edge.
Digital business cards have become a powerful alternative, offering instant sharing, clickable links, multimedia integration, and easy updates. Instead of a static snapshot, they act as living, dynamic profiles that can grow alongside your career.
For students, professionals, and business owners alike, having a digital card ready can make the difference between being remembered — or being forgotten in a pile of paper.
Step 1: Understand What a Digital Business Card I
A digital business card is an online version of your traditional business card that you can share instantly via:
- QR codes
- Links (URL)
- NFC (Near Field Communication) taps
- Email signatures
- Social media profiles
Unlike paper cards, you can update them anytime — so if your phone number, title, or job changes, you don’t need to reprint anything.
Step 2: Choose the Right Platform or Tool
Many platforms offer digital business card creation, each with its own features. Some popular options include:
- HiHello – Customisable designs, QR codes, analytics.
- Canva – Design-first approach, easy branding options.
- Beaconstac – NFC card integration with digital profiles.
- Linq – Interactive profiles with social and portfolio links.
When choosing, consider:
- Ease of sharing – Does it have QR code, link, or NFC?
- Customisation – Can you align colours and fonts with your personal or company brand?
- Analytics – Can you track how many people view your card?
- Integration – Can it be linked to LinkedIn, Calendly, or your portfolio?
Step 3: Decide What Information to Include
The key to a great digital business card is balance — enough detail to make you memorable, but not so much that it overwhelms the recipient.
Must-have elements:
- Full name
- Job title or professional tagline
- Company or organisation (if applicable)
- Email address
- Mobile/WhatsApp number
- LinkedIn profile
- Website or portfolio link
- Profile picture or professional headshot
Optional elements:
- Short bio (2–3 sentences)
- Social media links (only relevant ones)
- Calendly or booking link
- A QR code to your resume (for job seekers)
Step 4: Brand It Professionally
Your digital business card should reflect your personal or corporate brand. This means:
- Consistent colours – Match them to your logo or professional palette.
- Readable fonts – Avoid overly decorative styles that are hard to read.
- High-quality images – Your profile photo should be clear, well-lit, and professional.
- Tone – If you’re in a formal industry (e.g., finance, law), keep it minimal and clean; if you’re in a creative field, you can add more personality.
Step 5: Add Interactive Elements
One of the biggest advantages of digital cards is interactivity. Instead of just showing your email address, make it clickable. Same with your phone number, LinkedIn, or portfolio link.
You can even embed:
- A short introduction video
- Your latest project or case study
- A downloadable brochure or CV
Step 6: Make It Easy to Shar
At networking events, you often have just a few seconds to exchange contact details. Your digital business card should be instantly accessible.
Sharing options:
- QR Code – Have it on your phone’s home screen for quick access.
- NFC Card – Tap your physical NFC card to share instantly.
- Short Link – Keep a memorable URL (e.g., yourname.me).
Step 7: Keep It Updated
One of the most common mistakes with both paper and digital cards is outdated information. Make it a habit to update your card when:
- You change jobs or roles
- You get a new phone number or email
- You add a new project, portfolio, or credential
Step 8: Pair It With a Follow-Up Strategy
A business card — digital or paper — is only as good as your follow-up. After a networking event:
- Send a connection request on LinkedIn with a short personalised note.
- Email within 48 hours thanking them for the conversation.
- Reference a specific point from your meeting to jog their memory.
Special Note for International Students and Job Seekers
For international students or those attending networking events abroad, a digital business card can be a career advantage:
- It removes the need to carry stacks of printed cards.
- It allows you to showcase a multilingual profile.
- It can link directly to your resume and portfolio, which helps when applying for internships or jobs during post-study work rights.
If your study duration is short (e.g., three years at UWS London vs. four or more in your home country), using tools like digital cards early in your degree helps you build a professional network faster. This network is essential for finding internships, project collaborations, and eventual work permit sponsorship.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Overloading with links – Keep it focused on your most relevant platforms.
- Poor-quality images – Low-resolution or casual selfies harm your brand.
- Not testing before sharing – Make sure all links work.
- Using personal social accounts – Unless they’re professional, leave them out.
Quick Checklist Before Your Next Event
✅ Clear profile photo
✅ Clickable contact details
✅ Concise, relevant information
✅ Branded design matching your professional identity
✅ Updated portfolio or resume link
FAQs:
1. Are digital business cards better than paper ones?
They’re more versatile and easier to update, but paper cards can still work for traditional settings. Many professionals use both.
2. Do I need to pay for a digital business card?
Not necessarily — many platforms have free versions, though premium plans often offer better branding and analytics.
3. Can I still use a digital card if the other person doesn’t have the same app?
Yes — most cards can be shared via QR code or link, no special app needed.
4. How do I make a QR code for my card?
Most platforms generate one for you automatically, but you can also use free QR code generators online.
5. Should I still carry a few paper cards just in case?
Yes — especially for events where tech use might be limited.
6. Can I track who views my card?
Some platforms offer analytics that show views and clicks, but this is usually a paid feature.
7. What’s the ideal length for my bio?
Two to three sentences that summarise your role, expertise, and what you’re looking for.
