Business cards

[cyberdog]

Hi,
Probably a silly kind of question. As a sole trader would it be appropriate to put CEO after my name on my business card, or not. :oops:
Thanks

[will7]

Just putting "Owner" would probably be best. I learnt that in a recent thread. Up to you though, no law against as far as I know...

[Eagle]

You don't need to put anything, to be honest. A potential client could see it as a bit pretentious if you did... :)

[epiphany]

Isn't CEO an official term, you would have to be a plc, ltd or whatever to be the CEO, imo only of course :)

[Shaggy]

Keep it blank, I had Executive Director on mine, and you should of seen the faces I got when I handed my card over. I keep those for formal events now, and have blank ones for general use.

It surprises people when you tell them your the boss of the company. But hey we have three directors!!

[Anonymous]

I just have my name on my cards, it is a lot less pretentious.

[I, Brian]

We just had this question at Platinax:
http://www.platinax.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?t=2218

I have to admit, as sole trader, it can be difficult to be appropriate, especially when titles such as "director" or "manager" have specific legal/HR roles.

Owner sounds good, though - as I'm just about to print out a new one (once Mark above finishes my new logo :) ) then I'll make a final choice.

[buying_it]

In a small business I find it far more useful to have no title on my business cards. Each day in the office I am so many different people that I would need a huge wad of business cards to cover my multiple personalities.

Most people want to put CEO or MD on their cards to provide a bigger/more serious view of their company.The fact is that small businesses can offer far more flexibile solutions to their clients - and know each of their clients as individuals!

Don't throw that advantage away!

Andy

PS. Most UK councils are 'obliged' to use suppliers from the SME sector - so being a sole trader can work to your advantage with them!