Why We Should Embrace Business Cards in a Digital World

Recently, I had the pleasure of attending Adobe’s Create Now Toronto event, a dynamic and inspiring gathering tailored specifically for the graphic design community. Adobe Create Now is more than just a showcase—it’s an opportunity to connect with fellow creators, explore collaboration, and stay ahead of the curve with the latest design technologies and insider tips for creative professionals.

With nearly 500 attendees, this year’s event was bigger than ever, thanks to a stronger marketing push. The moment I stepped into The Symes venue, I was immersed in a creative atmosphere alongside illustrators, photographers, agency owners, UI/UX designers, and students. As a graphic and website designer, this event reminded me of the power of in-person connections.

The event kicked off with an hour of networking, followed by an in-depth look at Adobe’s latest tools. It had been a while since I attended a physical networking event, so I came prepared with my business cards—a decision that quickly paid off. Here’s what I noticed during the networking sessions:

1. Smooth Conversations: Sharing a business card allowed me to continue engaging with others without disrupting the flow of conversation. No fumbling with phones or apps, just a quick exchange and back to connecting.
2. Digital Distractions: When someone didn’t have a business card, things got clunky. I had to pause, pull out my phone, and shuffle through apps to find the right social media profile or QR code. Re-entering passwords, scanning and re-scanning—it slowed things down and made it harder to remember who I connected with later on.

The takeaway? In our increasingly digital world, the physical business card still holds value—especially at networking events. It cuts through the noise, making it easier to remember key contacts without cluttering your phone or social media. If you’re worried about efficiency, you can always add a QR code to the card to bridge the gap between physical and digital.