I recently returned from the International Conference of the Women Presidents’ Organization, where I met hundreds of women who own multimillion-dollar businesses. Naturally, I collected cards from several of them. Here’s the amazing thing I discovered about those cards: with the exception of two or three, they are all “same-old-same-old.” Why would the most successful women in the world have business cards that are as boring as a white wall?

Of course a business card should identify you, but it should also enable you to stand out from the crowd. If you’re part of a corporate conglomerate, you may have to go with the boring flow. But, if you own your own business, you’ve got the opportunity to reflect your personality on your card. Here are five ways to do that.

Five Ways to Create a Great Business Card

1. Create an unusual standout card.

What is your reaction when you hand your card to others. If they say “thanks” rather than “Wow, what a great card!” go back to the drawing board.

2. Give yourself a creative title.

There is no rule that you have to call yourself CEO or President or Owner. I’m all those things for my company, but the title on my card reads, “Growth Expert,” because that’s how I want my clients and prospects to think of me.

3. Consider the shape.

How could the shape of your card reflect your business? I recently saw a great lingerie store card in the shape of a bra. What shape would work for your business?

4. Include everything you’ve got.

Besides your office phone, cell phone, fax, and email address; be sure to include your Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn info.  

5. Be one of a kind.

Create such a unique card that EVERYONE you give it to will want to show it to EVERYONE they know.