By Edie Melson @EdieMelson

One of the most valuable parts of attending a writing conference is the opportunity for in-person networking.

Yes, a lot of networking happens online now—through social media, newsletters, and platforms we didn’t even have a few years ago. But nothing replaces a face-to-face conversation.

And while meeting someone in person is powerful…
being remembered is even better.

That’s where a good business card comes in.

A business card isn’t just for “professional” writers. It’s for anyone who plans to connect with others—writers, editors, agents, speakers, or industry professionals.

And notice I said good business card, not expensive.

Your card is often the first tangible impression you leave behind. So, it needs to reflect clarity, professionalism, and purpose—not clutter.

Before You Print: Ask Yourself These Questions

Take a look at your current card—or the one you’re designing—and run it through this quick filter:

Can you read the font?
Readability always wins over style. If someone has to squint, your card has already failed.

Do the colors work together?
High contrast is good—but be careful with harsh combinations. Some color pairings (like bright yellow and deep blue) can visually “vibrate” and make text harder to read.

Are the graphics distracting?
Design should support your information—not compete with it. If your eye doesn’t know where to land, simplify.

Are there too many fonts?
Stick to no more than two. Clean and consistent always feels more professional.

Is the card too slick (or bumpy) to write on?

So many editors, agents, and even other writers, take notes on the business card’s they are given. If your card doesn’t make this easy, you may miss out on something they wanted to remember about you.

Business Cards for Writers: What to Include Before Attending a Writing Conference (2026 Guide) by @EdieMelson on @BRMCWC #Writing #Writingconference #BRMCWC Share on X

What Every Writer’s Business Card Should Include

1. Your photo (yes, really)
   I know—not everyone loves having their picture taken. But your photo helps people connect your face with your name long after the conference ends. It builds recognition and trust faster than text alone. I’m one of those who struggles with my photo. My compromise is to have my photo on the back of the card, instead of the front.
2. The name you write under
   If you use a pseudonym, include it clearly.
   Example: Susie Stone, writing as Catherine Milo
3. Your email address
   This is still the most reliable way for industry professionals to follow up with you. And just a note here, make sure your email address is professional. Yes, you can use a gmail address, but your name should be recognizable in the email address. Here’s one example I really ran into: FunGrandma@hotmail.com—that really didn’t send the message the sweet woman intended to share.
4. Your website
   This is your home base. It gives people a place to learn more about you, your work, and your message.
5. Limited social media info
   Choose one or two platformswhere you’re most active. Don’t clutter your card trying to be everywhere.
6. (New for 2026) A QR code
   This is one of the simplest upgrades you can make.

A QR code can link directly to:

• Your website
• A landing page for your books
• Your email signup
• A digital media kit

It makes it incredibly easy for someone to connect with you instantly—no typing required. I’ve added two QR codes to my card—one for my website and one for the Blue Ridge website.

NOTE: don’t make the mistake I did and pay for someone to create a QR code for you. I got sucked into a scam, the initial cost was only $9.99, but after one month—if I wanted to keep using the QR code—I had to fork over $100. Canva makes a great QR code—completely customizable—for free.

What You DON’T Need on Your Business Card

Let’s simplify things:

• No physical address(for safety and privacy)
• No phone numberunless you truly want to be contacted that way (I have my phone set up so unknown calls don’t even ring, so it’s not helpful to include my number)
• No book cover images(your card represents you, not just one project)

If you need a descriptor (tagline), keep it honest and simple. For example:

Edie Melson
Writer • Blogger • Photographer

Clarity beats cleverness every time.

Practical Tips That Make a Big Difference

Keep the color light or neutral
People often jot notes on business cards. Make that easy.

Leave space (especially on the back)
White space is valuable. It invites interaction and helps people remember why they met you.

Choose quality paper—but not glossy
Glossy cards are hard to write on. Ultra-thin cards feel disposable. Aim for something sturdy and matte.

Stick with a standard size
Unique shapes may seem fun—but they’re easier to lose and harder to store.

Carry more than you think you’ll need
And don’t leave them in your hotel room. (It happens more than you think.)

One More Tip for Conference Success

Don’t just hand out your card—connect before you give it. Have a conversation. Ask questions. Listen well. Then offer your card as a natural next step. That’s what makes it meaningful.

Ready to Get Feedback?

If you’d like input on your business card design, share a picture of your card in our Facebook group:
Blue Ridge Conference Writers

You’ll get thoughtful, practical feedback from people who understand both writing and the industry.

A well-designed business card won’t make your career—but it can open the door to relationships that will.

And at a writing conference—including Blue Ridge—those relationships matter.

Now it’s your turn, what questions do you have about business cards and what tips can you share to help others?

Edie Melson is an award-winning author—and photographer—with numerous books to her credit. She’s a top-tier industry blogger, and sought-after speaker. Her blog, The Write Conversation has been part of the Writer’s Digest Top 101 Sites for Writers since 2017 and boasts over 9 million unique visitors. She’s also the executive director of the Blue Ridge Mountains Christian Writers Conference and board member of AWSA (Advanced Writers and Speakers Association). Her heart to help others define and reach their dreams has connected her with writers across the country and around the world. She and husband Kirk have been married 44+ years with three grown sons and four grandchildren. They live in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and can often be found—with their big black dog and Edie’s camera—hiking the mountains. Connect with her at EdieMelson.com and through social media.