Let's say, you are at a function and you are meeting a great many new people. How can you advertise your new business? Hand out your business card, what else! A business card can be an entrepreneur's best friend and a valuable marketing tool. The problem is that too many people have business cards that simply blend into the multitude.

How can you make your business card stand out from the pack and grab the receiver's attention? We've come up with 9 design elements to make your business card a unique marketing tool. Here goes.

* Develop a one-line slogan - When someone looks at your business card, can they immediately tell what your business does? Create a one-line slogan that will help people remember what you sell. Include the slogan on your business card. Typically 6 words are enough to get the message across - if they are the right words.

* Include your contact details - Tell readers how to contact you by phone, fax, and mail. Most importantly, include your website address because if your business is interesting that is the first place a prospective client will visit. It is surprising how many business cards miss this vital information.

* Make your card readable - Does your business card have a font size so small that you need to hand out a magnifying glass along with it? If recipients can't read the contact information, you've already lost them. Use font sizes that are big enough to be easily readable. Always use a light background with dark text.

* Use good card-stock paper for printing - Do you want to be perceived as a professional company meaning business? Then, do not skimp on money when it comes to your business card. Have it professionally printed on good heavyweight business card stock. A poor quality card shows your business in a poor light.

* Use color judiciously - A bit of color never hurt anyone! Same is the case with your business card. Spice it up with a little splash of color and you'd be surprised what a difference it makes. Among all the colors, red is the one that will stand out. Use a light background. A word of caution! - do not use more than 2 colors for text and avoid grey text on a white background.

* Use both sides - Why leave one side of the card blank? You can put it to great many uses. Print a recipe on the back if you are in the food business, a mortgage loan interest table if you are a real estate agent, or even, just a calendar.

* Shape your card - Why stick with the same boring rectangle? Use squares, circles, ovals and triangles to make your card stand out. If the shape can be associated with your business, all the better to grab attention.

* Teach a new language - If your business is global, why not add multiple languages for your business name or print the phonetic spelling of a difficult to pronounce name.

* Add your picture - Yes, you heard me right! This will not only make your card stand out, but also help the recipient connect your face with your business.

Above all, always carry your cards with you. What good is it having a box full of business cards if they're just sitting there collecting dust? Who knows, you might just meet a prospective client in a chance meeting today!