CAP Talk

Folks,
Is there somewhere in any regulation specifying the correct format to create business cards for recruiting and networking purposes.  If you know of any format that has been created or if you can reply and post up  a sample business card,  that would work.  Thanks

The only governing directive mentioning business cards is CAPR 900-2 (http://level2.cap.gov/documents/u_082503081227.pdf), Civil Air Patrol Seal, Emblem and Flag Etiquette.  It authorizes use of the CAP seal or emblem on Civil Air Patrol business cards when the member's official duty title is used.

That's about it.  Unfortunately, national headquarters does have an established identity or branding for our organization and also fails to provide standardized templates for things like business cards.  In my opinion, that's a major error from a marketing standpoint, as it means there are 1,000's of different business card layouts, implementations, and designs out there with 1,000's of different messages being distributed to the public - many perhaps not even correct in some regards.

So, yes, feel free to use templates other members have used or to invent your own.

I used VistaPrint.com to do my cards, and I'm very happy with the product.  They were pretty cheap, too, under $20 IIRC.

I created my own design using their Photoshop template.  I've attached an example (with the personal info altered).  My latest revision of this design puts the Core Values in the blue stripe (the values are now in white lettering).  The "CAP Core Values" label sits just above the stripe.

I strongly recommend getting the business cards printed professionally.  Most home printers don't handle card stock very well, and even if they do, the perforated business cards sheets you can buy at the office supply store are amateur-looking.

For as often as you'll need business cards, it's worth the investment for them to look awesome.

Dan, thanks for the layout of your business card..........I've used Vistaprint in the past, and they are an excellent service for the price........

From experience, I recommend PrintPlace.com over VistaPrint, but either way - as Dan put it, if you're going to make them, spend a few dollars and get them made properly. 

Nothing says louder "I'm wicked lame" in the business world than an ink jet printed card with the perforated edges.

Quote from: Pylon on September 23, 2008, 07:11:43 PM
From experience, I recommend PrintPlace.com over VistaPrint, but either way - as Dan put it, if you're going to make them, spend a few dollars and get them made properly. 

Nothing says louder "I'm wicked lame" in the business world than an ink jet printed card with the perforated edges.

What's wrong with printing them on normal card stock and then cutting them with a razor knife?

There are plenty of clean edge DIY business card stocks available, some of them are practically indistingishable from the real thing.

FLWG has a format that they encourage members to use (It is what I use..). Attached.

Well I'm pretty cheap, so I use the no perf business cards made by avery.

I used the template from FLWG, howver I found that the template doesn't line up with the card layout so I downloaded avery's design program and and recreated them

They come out real nice, and if I get to choose how many I print, this way if I switch jobs I don't have to get rid of a million cards that I paid for

Quote from: davidsinn on September 23, 2008, 07:21:05 PM
What's wrong with printing them on normal card stock and then cutting them with a razor knife?

Nothing if you've got an offset press sitting in your garage.

Let me put it this way - I work in public relations & communications (perhaps it shows through in my annoyance with less-than-par print pieces and branding, etc.).  If I'm at a networking event, or a PRSA meeting, a conference or just chatting up somebody I've happened to run into, believe it or not I'll judge a lot about them on their business card.    

Two people could approach me and talk about their consulting business.  One of them has an offset printed card on 100# or heavier cardstock, color with bleeds and is double-sided, has an aqueous coating or a rounded corner or some other professional detail... or let's say he has a thermograved card on heavy linen stock.  The other consultant has a card he printed on his ink jet from an Avery DIY kit.   I'll know the difference immediately, and I've already in my mind judged the legitimacy and capabilities of both consultants.  Is that right?   Perhaps not - perhaps I should have judged on more substantive factors.  But nonetheless I do it and so do many other professionals.  Guess which one I'm more likely to call if I need his services?

Frankly, few people in the squadron have need for a business card anyways.  The people who interact with those outside of CAP are the ones who need professional cards.  Commanders, PAO's, Recruiting Officers, and anybody working in ES who interfaces with other agencies, etc.   If you're the asst. testing officer for Nowhere Cadet Squadron, I guess it doesn't matter if you're using the cheesy perf'ed cards because you're not giving them to anybody other than perhaps other people within CAP you meet. 

But for those who represent Civil Air Patrol to the outside world, the professional image extends beyond ironing your uniform, grooming your unibrow and remembering your manners in conversation.

Its hard to argue about presenting a professional image, but since most business cards are thrown out after they are entered into a contact manager, and we're not "competing" with anyone else, there has to be some temper to the expense.

Also, less and less people use printing companies to make the nice, raised print cards, more and more businesses are doing them using an inkjet process, and I have received plenty of home-grown cards from professional PD/FD/military.

The Avery clean-edge stock is indistinguishable from Vista Print, or most professional services that use an inkjet instead of a press, however if you use poor, jaggy graphics, a bad layout, or can't be bothered to change the yellow ink cart, then they will still look amateurish.

And nothing says "lame" like the Vistaprint logo on the back that says you got them for free.

Quote from: Pylon on September 23, 2008, 07:32:40 PM

Nothing if you've got an offset press sitting in your garage.

Let me put it this way - I work in public relations & communications (perhaps it shows through in my annoyance with less-than-par print pieces and branding, etc.).  If I'm at a networking event, or a PRSA meeting, a conference or just chatting up somebody I've happened to run into, believe it or not I'll judge a lot about them on their business card.    

Two people could approach me and talk about their consulting business.  One of them has an offset printed card on 100# or heavier cardstock, color with bleeds and is double-sided, has an aqueous coating or a rounded corner or some other professional detail... or let's say he has a thermograved card on heavy linen stock.  The other consultant has a card he printed on his ink jet from an Avery DIY kit.   I'll know the difference immediately, and I've already in my mind judged the legitimacy and capabilities of both consultants.  Is that right?   Perhaps not - perhaps I should have judged on more substantive factors.  But nonetheless I do it and so do many other professionals.  Guess which one I'm more likely to call if I need his services?

Frankly, few people in the squadron have need for a business card anyways.  The people who interact with those outside of CAP are the ones who need professional cards.  Commanders, PAO's, Recruiting Officers, and anybody working in ES who interfaces with other agencies, etc.   If you're the asst. testing officer for Nowhere Cadet Squadron, I guess it doesn't matter if you're using the cheesy perf'ed cards because you're not giving them to anybody other than perhaps other people within CAP you meet. 

But for those who represent Civil Air Patrol to the outside world, the professional image extends beyond ironing your uniform, grooming your unibrow and remembering your manners in conversation.

I could not agree more.

If you present me with an ink jet avery card...you may as well be wearing a tank top and jorts with a natty ice in your hand and telling me you're the President.

Quote from: Eclipse on September 23, 2008, 07:48:48 PM
Its hard to argue about presenting a professional image, but since most business cards are thrown out after they are entered into a contact manager, and we're not "competing" with anyone else, there has to be some temper to the expense.

While I used extreme ends of the spectrum in my examples above with the two "consultants", I'm not advocating CAP members spend a small fortune on a personal handout item. 

Staples sells the smallest pack of Avery ink jet business cards (250) for $14.49 (http://www.staples.com/office/supplies/p1_Avery-Inkjet-Business-Cards_18474_Business_Supplies_10051_SEARCH).  I won't even bother to mention incidental expenses like your ink.

PrintPlace sells 250 business cards, full color front, with bleeds on 14pt card stock with an aqueous coating finish process for $15.50 (http://www.printplace.com/printing/business-card-printing.aspx).  That's about 7,000 times better looking than any home-printed Avery jobs.  Heck, the ink won't even run or rub off when they're in your wallet.  ;-)

So arguments about spending a fortune, or ending up with thousands of cards should one get promoted or change duties, or any of the other ones advocating a Do-it-yourself approach versus a professional printing one kinda go out the window there.

But it's only half the battle, because everyone will still be making their own designs, wording, layouts and using one or more of CAP's 6 different logos in current use.

Most CAP staffers only need 10 or 20 at a time - for that 15 bucks I can make enough for the whole unit to have cards
for the conference, and I can run them off the night before if needed.  Why would I run off all 250 when I can make them as needed?

And I'm not stuck with a bunch of extras when things change, as they often do in CAP.

As to the comments about how they look, if you use a Hello Kitty printer, sure, if you take the time with the design and use a 1/2-way decent printer, you can't tell the difference, and if you're concerned about them running, use an archival ink (though who really cares about that).

Quote from: Eclipse on September 23, 2008, 08:43:15 PM
Most CAP staffers only need 10 or 20 at a time - for that 15 bucks I can make enough for the whole unit to have cards
for the conference, and I can run them off the night before if needed.  Why would I run off all 250 when I can make them as needed?

And I'm not stuck with a bunch of extras when things change, as they often do in CAP.

As to the comments about how they look, if you use a Hello Kitty printer, sure, if you take the time with the design and use a 1/2-way decent printer, you can't tell the difference, and if you're concerned about them running, use an archival ink (though who really cares about that).

That's the reason I make my own, 20 at a pop. I use the clean edge ones and use our color laser printer at work.  Because of the borders around it I can even fake a bleedover look.  At least for me, I end up getting promoted or change positions or our slogan of the week changes, I get a new phone number, e-mail address, etc. You just wasted all my money.

I've recieved a bunch of compliments on some of the designs I've had.  I can't stand half the ones I see though.

As an example, Ice's card above is using a logo with incorrect scaling of the CAP insignia in relation to the wings, and the colors are off. 

That particular graphic was put together by someone and appears all over the place despites its issues.

The correct one can be found on af.mil.

I HANDED YOU ONE OF THOSE CARDS, and you call me out here!?!?!?!

Thanks a lot, buddy!

Quote from: IceNine on September 24, 2008, 01:08:29 PM
I HANDED YOU ONE OF THOSE CARDS, and you call me out here!?!?!?!

Thanks a lot, buddy!

I'm there for you!

I want some of those card shaped CD/DVD business cards... Ever seen one of those?

I'll have to dig out my original business cards I had made at the Pentagon.  In 1994 I was assigned to the Pentagon and they had a print shop that had every single military logo known to man.  For $5.99 I had 1,000  CAP business cards made.

Quote from: MIKE on September 24, 2008, 02:40:25 PM
I want some of those card shaped CD/DVD business cards... Ever seen one of those?

Pretty cool, especially if you have some compelling media on them - you can dupe them on home burners.

I wonder if they make those in lightscribe?  You could make some pretty need business cards on the fly.

Quote from: Eclipse on September 24, 2008, 02:45:43 PM

Quote from: MIKE on September 24, 2008, 02:40:25 PM
I want some of those card shaped CD/DVD business cards... Ever seen one of those?

Pretty cool, especially if you have some compelling media on them - you can dupe them on home burners.

I wonder if they make those in lightscribe?  You could make some pretty need business cards on the fly.

I haven't seen them in light scribe it would be nice if they had them I'd sure get some.

I use vista print for my military business cards, and routinely give those to other CAP members.

the first order with them is free, plus s/h, so about $10 IIRC. I recommend the standard flag design card that's very popular.

You can get additional orders for free if you go thru military.com to access vista print. They have military themed cards that you can modify for CAP. I'd recommend the standard AF recruiter style card w/ the CAP seal swapped w/ AF. The logo (CAP seal) will cost you $5 extra. You can also print on the back at no extra charge. I did all that recently & it cost me about $15.

It might be cheaper to print my own, but it's not worth $10 of my effort & I wouldn't compromise on quality.

One of the examples above had US Air Force Auxiliary above Civil Air Patrol. I've seen this on other print materials from various CAP personnel.

Question: Which goes first?

I always had the impression that Civil Air Patrol should precede the USAF AUX part.

Quote from: stratoflyer on September 25, 2008, 03:26:10 AM
One of the examples above had US Air Force Auxiliary above Civil Air Patrol. I've seen this on other print materials from various CAP personnel.

Question: Which goes first?

I always had the impression that Civil Air Patrol should precede the USAF AUX part.

Though it's not specified for business cards, I'd take cues from CAP's other communications vehicles.  CAPR 10-1 puts "Civil Air Patrol" above "US Air Force Auxiliary" on the letterhead for all correspondence.  CAPR 110-1 specifies the same arrange with "Civil Air Patrol" being the most prominent on all CAP websites.  I think that sets a pretty decent precedent upon which to judge for other uses.

^Agreed.

The organization is Civil Air Patrol. No "The" before it, nor a "U.S." And "United States Air Force Auxiliary" should fall underneath the name, not above it. (Some people overestimate their worth, huh?  :P)

There was this crazy phenomenon that seemed to take root after Sept. 11 when people started identifying as the Air Force Auxiliary rather than CAP. Who knows why, but for a while, it was really annoying. Remember seeing people with signature lines like this?

JOE BLOW, Major, USAF Aux
Assistant Director of Garbage Compliance, North Nowhere Wing

I even saw "USAFA" instead of CAP. Uh, that's the Academy....

The old CAP Bookstore sold CAP business cards. The seal was in the upper left, printed in two colors (blue and red). Wonder why they stopped selling them. There's too many variants these days.

Then again, the old 10-1 used to have exact dimensions and specifications for letterheads! Where'd THAT go?

And a side note -- I wouldn't ever have business cards printed on an offset press. Sheetfed, yes, but not offset. Offset is great for newspapers, but not for something with a design as intricate as the CAP seal (to get the color in register).

One reason for saying "United States Air Force Auxiliary" I think is more for brand recognition. 

"CAP" is America's best kept secret."  At least that is what we are told...  USAF Aux has instant brand recognition. 

How many times have you said Civil Air Patrol to someone and they just give you a blank stare?  When you include USAF Aux, their eyes light up with.. "Ohhhh Okay.... Now I understand..."

CAP needs a lot better positioning and branding.  Until then USAF Aux is the lead in.

What do the folks up at NHQ have for business cards? Maybe we should model after that?

Quote from: Pumbaa on September 25, 2008, 09:56:00 AM
One reason for saying "United States Air Force Auxiliary" I think is more for brand recognition. 

"CAP" is America's best kept secret."  At least that is what we are told...  USAF Aux has instant brand recognition. 

How many times have you said Civil Air Patrol to someone and they just give you a blank stare?  When you include USAF Aux, their eyes light up with.. "Ohhhh Okay.... Now I understand..."

CAP needs a lot better positioning and branding.  Until then USAF Aux is the lead in.

CAP needs better branding and identity.  Using "US Air Force Auxiliary" isn't the answer, for the interim or the long term.

I disagree that "US Air Force Auxiliary" has some sort of instant brand recognition.  People understand "US Air Force," when they hear that, they're not going to think "volunteers in a non-profit organization that carries out cadet programs, emergency services and promotes aerospace education."   If you rely on that name, you'll actually reduce opportunity to distinguish who we are by constantly confusing us with being a part of the Air Force.  We're not.  We support them, they support us, we can and do act in a capacity as their Auxiliary, but we are Civil Air Patrol.

Quote from: BigMojo on September 25, 2008, 12:18:55 PM
What do the folks up at NHQ have for business cards? Maybe we should model after that?

Maybe the folks at National should get on creating an actual brand and identity for CAP, professionally produce templates, mandate use and we could model after that.

Quote from: Pylon on September 25, 2008, 12:51:53 PM
Maybe the folks at National should get on creating an actual brand and identity for CAP, professionally produce templates, mandate use and we could model after that.

I don't think that'll happen. I asked the KB if my unit could mandate a template for cards and the answer was no. ref# 080820-000001

Quote from: davidsinn on September 25, 2008, 03:56:50 PM

Quote from: Pylon on September 25, 2008, 12:51:53 PM
Maybe the folks at National should get on creating an actual brand and identity for CAP, professionally produce templates, mandate use and we could model after that.

I don't think that'll happen. I asked the KB if my unit could mandate a template for cards and the answer was no. ref# 080820-000001

The unit commander can most certainly mandate what types of print communications your squadron members are making and handing out to the public.  If you couldn't, that means you couldn't stop newbie SM John Doe from making recruiting brochures with his own designs or Cadet Snuffy from designing up CAP posters with cadets holding machine guns in rambo poses or the PAO couldn't control use of the unit's branding and emblem.  A commander absolutely has that level of control and authority.

The KB answer-minions sometimes smoke crack, or don't have a full grasp of the regulations; and by its very nature, the KB isn't definitive nor regulatory, only advisory in nature.

Quote from: Pylon on September 26, 2008, 01:28:27 AM
The unit commander can most certainly mandate what types of print communications your squadron members are making and handing out to the public. 

Absolutely, a Unit CC has complete and total authority, along with the corresponding responsibility, over every aspect of operations within the unit.

Every aspect, whether its where people stand, or who gets promoted.

In most cases, staff positions receive delegated authority, but responsibility can never be delegated.

The same is true for the increasing scope as you work up the chain.

Quote from: davidsinn on September 25, 2008, 03:56:50 PM

Quote from: Pylon on September 25, 2008, 12:51:53 PM
Maybe the folks at National should get on creating an actual brand and identity for CAP, professionally produce templates, mandate use and we could model after that.

I don't think that'll happen. I asked the KB if my unit could mandate a template for cards and the answer was no. ref# 080820-000001

That's because NHQ has tried to regulate what its identity collateral looks like -- though admittedly, it's not as clear-cut as it used to be.

Quote from: Eclipse on September 26, 2008, 01:44:40 AM

Quote from: Pylon on September 26, 2008, 01:28:27 AM
The unit commander can most certainly mandate what types of print communications your squadron members are making and handing out to the public. 

Absolutely, a Unit CC has complete and total authority, along with the corresponding responsibility, over every aspect of operations within the unit.

Every aspect, whether its where people stand, or who gets promoted.

In most cases, staff positions receive delegated authority, but responsibility can never be delegated.

The same is true for the increasing scope as you work up the chain.

I was going to design a template and get my CC's ok but I was fired by the acting CC tonight from the PAO position even though he said I was doing a good job so I guess we won't see how mandating it works.

I'm so happy to work for FedEx Office (formerly FedEx Kinko's).  I'll not gloat over what I pay for my cards. <snicker snicker> ;D

I actually make my own depending on the event I am attending. I have a professional printing system that I use for my wedding invitation business that me and my wife own. I have a template that I use that prints the lines to cut out. We have a professinal sized paper cutter (I call it the finger guillatene) and they look as good as those I would have to pay for. It does raised printing and I can pick my own paper. I also make my own custom blotter pad sheets as well.

If I am going to a conference than I make no more than about 50. If I am going to be directing or attending something like a SLS/CLC where there is more direct contact than I would make enough for all.

Quote from: Pylon on September 25, 2008, 12:51:53 PM

Quote from: Pumbaa on September 25, 2008, 09:56:00 AM
One reason for saying "United States Air Force Auxiliary" I think is more for brand recognition. 

"CAP" is America's best kept secret."  At least that is what we are told...  USAF Aux has instant brand recognition. 

How many times have you said Civil Air Patrol to someone and they just give you a blank stare?  When you include USAF Aux, their eyes light up with.. "Ohhhh Okay.... Now I understand..."

CAP needs a lot better positioning and branding.  Until then USAF Aux is the lead in.

CAP needs better branding and identity.  Using "US Air Force Auxiliary" isn't the answer, for the interim or the long term.

I disagree that "US Air Force Auxiliary" has some sort of instant brand recognition.  People understand "US Air Force," when they hear that, they're not going to think "volunteers in a non-profit organization that carries out cadet programs, emergency services and promotes aerospace education."   If you rely on that name, you'll actually reduce opportunity to distinguish who we are by constantly confusing us with being a part of the Air Force.  We're not.  We support them, they support us, we can and do act in a capacity as their Auxiliary, but we are Civil Air Patrol.

Quote from: BigMojo on September 25, 2008, 12:18:55 PM
What do the folks up at NHQ have for business cards? Maybe we should model after that?

Maybe the folks at National should get on creating an actual brand and identity for CAP, professionally produce templates, mandate use and we could model after that.

How many people hear "auxiliary" and think of the local hospital's auxiliary or the VFW ladies' auxiliary? A bunch of old women who sit around and raise money? That isn't CAP. "Auxiliary" isn't necessarily a word that brands us well.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Auxiliaries

Quote from: BuckeyeDEJ on October 18, 2008, 11:17:15 PM

Quote from: Pylon on September 25, 2008, 12:51:53 PM

Quote from: Pumbaa on September 25, 2008, 09:56:00 AM
One reason for saying "United States Air Force Auxiliary" I think is more for brand recognition. 

"CAP" is America's best kept secret."  At least that is what we are told...  USAF Aux has instant brand recognition. 

How many times have you said Civil Air Patrol to someone and they just give you a blank stare?  When you include USAF Aux, their eyes light up with.. "Ohhhh Okay.... Now I understand..."

CAP needs a lot better positioning and branding.  Until then USAF Aux is the lead in.

CAP needs better branding and identity.  Using "US Air Force Auxiliary" isn't the answer, for the interim or the long term.

I disagree that "US Air Force Auxiliary" has some sort of instant brand recognition.  People understand "US Air Force," when they hear that, they're not going to think "volunteers in a non-profit organization that carries out cadet programs, emergency services and promotes aerospace education."   If you rely on that name, you'll actually reduce opportunity to distinguish who we are by constantly confusing us with being a part of the Air Force.  We're not.  We support them, they support us, we can and do act in a capacity as their Auxiliary, but we are Civil Air Patrol.

Quote from: BigMojo on September 25, 2008, 12:18:55 PM
What do the folks up at NHQ have for business cards? Maybe we should model after that?

Maybe the folks at National should get on creating an actual brand and identity for CAP, professionally produce templates, mandate use and we could model after that.

How many people hear "auxiliary" and think of the local hospital's auxiliary or the VFW ladies' auxiliary? A bunch of old women who sit around and raise money? That isn't CAP. "Auxiliary" isn't necessarily a word that brands us well.

Actually, when I hear the term "auxiliary" I think of the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Mine are patterned after the CAP seal - Civil Air Patrol under United States Air Force Auxiliary. I originally put CAP on top, but it didn't look right, seeing that the text is positioned right next to the seal.

It wasn't all that long ago that CAP Mart sold CAP business cards.  I bought a box of them about 7-8 years ago.  I guess they dropped that product when they switched to Vanguard. 

Quote from: Pylon on September 23, 2008, 06:02:47 PM
The only governing directive mentioning business cards is CAPR 900-2 (http://level2.cap.gov/documents/u_082503081227.pdf), Civil Air Patrol Seal, Emblem and Flag Etiquette.  It authorizes use of the CAP seal or emblem on Civil Air Patrol business cards when the member's official duty title is used.

I just looked at 900-2 dated 12 Nov 03 and it SPECIFICALLY PROHIBITS the use of the corporate seal (the one that looks like the USAF seal) and ONLY allows the corporate emblem to be used on business cards.

Wow! All the cards I've ever seen show the seal and I don't know if I've ever seen a card with the emblem on it!

Time for us all to make an order with vista print!

John Gniewkowski

Quote from: G+10 on November 26, 2008, 03:05:18 AM

Quote from: Pylon on September 23, 2008, 06:02:47 PM
The only governing directive mentioning business cards is CAPR 900-2 (http://level2.cap.gov/documents/u_082503081227.pdf), Civil Air Patrol Seal, Emblem and Flag Etiquette.  It authorizes use of the CAP seal or emblem on Civil Air Patrol business cards when the member's official duty title is used.

I just looked at 900-2 dated 12 Nov 03 and it SPECIFICALLY PROHIBITS the use of the corporate seal (the one that looks like the USAF seal) and ONLY allows the corporate emblem to be used on business cards.

You need to re-read that, it literally says the exact opposite, citing business cards as one of the authorized uses for both the emblem and the seal.

See the table on the bottom of Page 4.

The only prohibited use is on personal business cards.  CAP business cards are fully authorized.

Why is this beginning to sound like the argument in American Psycho???

I recently threw out all of my leftover business cards because I realized they were too ostentatious. 

I decided to go with the "don't be afraid of whitespace" approach.  I've attached what I'm using now.

Nice cards, jimmydeano.

Technically, I should get new ones, since I'm not a member of a squadron anymore.  Someday, maybe.

Curt LaFond at NHQ had a really cool, minimalist design for his business cards (and they were portrait orientation!).  Sometimes, less is more.

Thanks Dan,

Curt's cards are nice, simple, self-explanatory.

I've been reading the business card ideas and desktop publishing lessons from www.bamagazine.com and recently purchased one of their books, Before and After Page Design (http://www.peachpit.com/store/product.aspx?isbn=020179537X).

Still, I'm definitely no expert when it comes to creating these things, but I'm happy with the results.

Gotprint.com has good quality cards on the cheap (250 for $8.75). Nice heavy stock.

I have s template in word and print up 20 or 30 color cards when i need them.  With the way rank changes, etc.. I don't want to waste the money even if it is only $10.

I don't need some fancy card, just a good basic professional looking card.  People in the US do not consider BC's of much importance as say in the Asian culture.

Quote from: Eclipse on November 26, 2008, 03:16:48 AM

You need to re-read that, it literally says the exact opposite, citing business cards as one of the authorized uses for both the emblem and the seal.

See the table on the bottom of Page 4.

The only prohibited use is on personal business cards.  CAP business cards are fully authorized.

You are correct, I confused the word personal to mean "an individual" when it actually means non-CAP business cards. Got it and thanks!

John Gniewkowski

Here are 3 different business cards that I've had over the years.  The top card is the first one I got, while I was stationed in the Pentagon and found they had a CAP seal in the "personalized service" shop, circa 1994.

The middle one is a format I can't seem to find on my computer, but a cadet actually gave it to me.

The bottom one is just something I put together on Word.

Thanks for sharing.

OK, stupid question, but what do Air Force business cards look like?

Just had card made up by vista, can't figure out how to post the image, so pm and I'll forward it

Quote from: KyCAP on December 03, 2008, 03:13:40 AM
OK, stupid question, but what do Air Force business cards look like?

I have never seen a standard AF business card.  If there is an AFI that covers business cards I'd be surprised.  But the way everyone just does what they want in the AF, I wouldn't count on there being a standard.

I save everything and yesterday when I was going through my box of business cards looking for a few of my old ones, I came across 3 or 4 different cards from AF folks.  None of them came close resembling the other.

Quote from: dwb on September 23, 2008, 06:12:39 PM
I used VistaPrint.com to do my cards, and I'm very happy with the product.  They were pretty cheap, too, under $20 IIRC.

I created my own design using their Photoshop template.  I've attached an example (with the personal info altered).  My latest revision of this design puts the Core Values in the blue stripe (the values are now in white lettering).  The "CAP Core Values" label sits just above the stripe.

I strongly recommend getting the business cards printed professionally. 

For as often as you'll need business cards, it's worth the investment for them to look awesome.

+1 for VistaPrint.com.  Just checked them out and used their card builder template.  Wish I would have found this when I was a cop.  Our cards cost like $100 from a place called www.shieldcardamerica.com.  Awesome cards, but way too much money.

Just played with the program on vistaprint.com and came up with this.  Didn't order it though.

Just a little fuzzy, but you get the idea.

You can also opt for a back side, which I simply wrote


(http://captalk.net/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=6081.0;attach=2423)

I never cared for the command-patch-nested-in-USAF-symbol graphic, but otherwise, the card looks good.

Quote from: dwb on December 04, 2008, 06:34:04 PM
I never cared for the command-patch-nested-in-USAF-symbol graphic, but otherwise, the card looks good.

Me neither.  But isn't that what we're using these days?  I actually found it on an af.mil site as our official emblem.

Quote from: Stonewall on December 04, 2008, 06:34:57 PM

Quote from: dwb on December 04, 2008, 06:34:04 PM
I never cared for the command-patch-nested-in-USAF-symbol graphic, but otherwise, the card looks good.

Me neither.  But isn't that what we're using these days?  I actually found it on an af.mil site as our official emblem.

IMO, looks better than the seal one as seen in CAPR 900-2 (http://members.gocivilairpatrol.com/media/cms/u_082503081227.pdf).

Quote from: Stonewall on December 04, 2008, 06:34:57 PMMe neither.  But isn't that what we're using these days?  I actually found it on an af.mil site as our official emblem.

We have many official emblems. :)  The circle with words around the edge, the circle with prop, the MAJCOM-style logo (all three versions), logos with the above nested in the funky-looking USAF wings, etc.

Don't get Kieloch started on that.

This has always been my favorite.  That MAJCOM cartoon looking thing we have on our van looks weak to me.

This looks much more official on the corporate vans:

(http://blogs.phillyburbs.com/news/bct/wp-content/blogs.dir/3/files/2008/06/0600Civil.png)

Honestly, I've always like the CAP Emblem (blue circle with the white triangle and the CAP rocker).  It speaks to our past, is clean and simple hasn't changed.

I dispise the command patch being used on everything, I think it is horrible for a corporate logo, the seal is too complicated and busy, the AF Logo with the CAP Seal looks terrible to. (IMO).

Quote from: Stonewall on December 04, 2008, 06:58:11 PM
This has always been my favorite.  That MAJCOM cartoon looking thing we have on our van looks weak to me.

This looks much more official on the corporate vans:

(http://blogs.phillyburbs.com/news/bct/wp-content/blogs.dir/3/files/2008/06/0600Civil.png)

Thanks! I drew that for Air Force News Service -- it was posted to Air Force Link back in 1999 or 2000.

(Really, I did. I get a kick out of seeing it around.)

Quote from: dwb on December 04, 2008, 06:46:30 PM
Don't get Kieloch started on that.

You rang for an irritated communications guy?   ;D

FYI.  I went with the design I showed earlier and while I agree with Jimmy and the logo, I went with what I had.  It was only $25 and I can order more at a 25% discount now with a coupon they sent me.

Anyhoo, with my phone number edited, here is what I got, front and back (back was an extra $6.00).

They are very professionally done.  Hard stock, just like the ones my company issues me. 

Quote from: jimmydeanno on November 26, 2008, 01:35:48 PM
I recently threw out all of my leftover business cards because I realized they were too ostentatious. 

I decided to go with the "don't be afraid of whitespace" approach.  I've attached what I'm using now.

Try this:  Maj Clark Kent

It's not a signature block and putting CAP on there is redundant.

Quote from: Stonewall on December 02, 2008, 06:56:07 PM
Here are 3 different business cards that I've had over the years.  The top card is the first one I got, while I was stationed in the Pentagon and found they had a CAP seal in the "personalized service" shop, circa 1994.

The middle one is a format I can't seem to find on my computer, but a cadet actually gave it to me.

The bottom one is just something I put together on Word.

Once again, using Lt Col Xxxx Yyyy, CAP is unneeded.  Everyone, for some reason, wants to put that after everyone's name, no matter how many times it's replicated.  If you have CAP on the card, such as a CAP emblem, then it's redundant.  Just put Rank Fname Lname.

Gunner

If you put grade and name, you need the , CAP... Standard sig per CAPR 10-1.

Quote from: MIKE on December 17, 2008, 03:39:36 PM
If you put grade and name, you need the , CAP... Standard sig per CAPR 10-1.

Although I agree with Gunner, it does fall under the Department of Redundancy Department, I always add the "CAP" at the end. 

But would this be considered an "official" signature block?

Perhaps it is important to put the CAP at the end since the card also has the words "US AIR FORCE" on it and we don't want to misrepresent ourselves.  In the grand scheme of things, it isn't a big deal, but right is right.

Quote from: MIKE on December 17, 2008, 03:39:36 PM
If you put grade and name, you need the , CAP... Standard sig per CAPR 10-1.

Where in 10-1 does it discuss business cards, even remotely?  You're talking about signature blocks.  Your business card doesn't have your signature.  The purpose of a signature block it to establish your authority for the signature.  CAP is CRAZY with signature blocks.  Emails are the worst offenders - check the pen and quill for how to end an email -

Rank Fname Lname
Duty (If appropriate)

If you have CAP plastered all over the card, you don't need CAP after your name.  It's like having:

ANYTOWN USA MEDICAL CLINIC

Dr John Doe, MD
Physician

;D

Quote from: Gunner C on December 17, 2008, 08:20:12 PM
If you have CAP plastered all over the card, you don't need CAP after your name. 

Not only does the reg require it, but just because you are affiliated with CAP, doesn't mean your grade was conferred by them.  I would point to the CAP-USAF people as examples, or those who hold the same grade in a combatant service.

Here's what I'm using, recently updated with the current MAJCOM.
(http://captalk.net/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=6081.0;attach=2609;image)


The "AA###" above the contact info is my radio callsign - as useful to anyone outside CAP as a DSN is to anyone not on a military base, but handy when needed.
I created them in MS Publisher and print as needed on the clean break cards. If anyone wants the .pub file, just PM me.

IF I include my rank/grade, I always print CAP immediately afterward.  Admittedly I wasn't aware of CAPR 10-1, but I am not a military officer, never have been, and prefer to avoid the possibility of anyone thinking I'm a poser.  Spelling out in great detail who I am (and am not) helps avoid that.  Much of the time I don't bother with the rank/grade at all. 

Overly cautious?  Perhaps.  Here's why: I've met enough people in and out of CAP who bask in unearned glory by introducing themselves in a vague manner that leaves room for misinterpretation.

Example:
"I work for the sheriff's department" said while acting like a cop (open to interpretation), versus "I'm an evidence technician for the sheriff's department."

So, I prefer to state "I'm a member of the Civil Air Patrol" instead of "I'm a Captain in the Air Force Auxiliary." 

While all the phrases may be technically correct, some leave plenty of room to draw improper conclusions and are valuable tools in the wannabe tool kit.  Me?  I want to stay as far away from that as possible. So I plaster CAP all over my business cards even at the risk of being redundant.

Quote from: wuzafuzz on January 17, 2009, 02:08:21 PMOverly cautious?  Perhaps.  Here's why: I've met enough people in and out of CAP who bask in unearned glory by introducing themselves in a vague manner that leaves room for misinterpretation.

Example:
"I work for the sheriff's department" said while acting like a cop (open to interpretation), versus "I'm an evidence technician for the sheriff's department."

So, I prefer to state "I'm a member of the Civil Air Patrol" instead of "I'm a Captain in the Air Force Auxiliary." 

I understand what you're saying, to an extent, but I don't think it's all that necessary.  You could always say you're a "a captain in the Civil Air Patrol".  I do know of people who say things like "when I was in Special Forces", when he was an NQP (non-qualified person) at an SF unit and everyone believes he was an "operator".

That said, I'm sure this next part will really pi$$ off some of my fellow veterans.  I believe there to be this stigma attached to military service that has people believing it's so honorable that no one should dare talk about it unless you've served.  Serving in the military is honorable, I agree.  But so is being a teacher, a trash man, meter maid, corrections officer, or air traffic controller.  More so in the uniform discussions than elsewhere, you often see people saying "we are not the military" or "I don't want people to think I'm trying to be a real military officer".  My guess is that one out of a thousand may be offended.  I learned in government class "minorities have rights, but majority rules".  I'm not talking racial issues either, so don't go there.

Don't be afraid or even concerned with being a poser if you're not making an effort to be one.  If you follow the CAP regulations as far as uniforms, signature blocks, customs and courtesies, you'll be fine.  Respect the veterans and those who serve, that's great.  But do not fear them.  Don't worry about insulting them.  The military is not all it's cracked up to be as in it ain't that big of a deal.  There are tough parts of military life, but there are some who are more "civilian" than CAP members.  If you can get through a couple month basic recruit training, which I'm convinced most people can, then you too can see that it ain't no big thing.

Bottom line, don't worry about being accused of being a [military] poser if you aren't one.

Heck, I just leave it at "I play Air Force on the weekends" for most people. It avoids the complication of having an explanation right off the bat to answer "what's Civil Air Patrol?"

If they ask, usually, "are you in the reserve?" or "are you in the guard?," then I explain.

"No, I'm in Civil Air Patrol, which is the uniformed civilian auxiliary of the Air Force. We're federal, but we're all volunteers."

Then if they're further interested, I'll give 'em the schpeal. "I command a hybrid unit that both flies and trains cadets," yada yada. I tell 'em about where we are, give 'em an idea of who we have aboard, and if they're still interested, I invite 'em out.

It would be nice if CAP NHQ would set up a common business-card template, following CAP regulations (and, if that doesn't specify anything, Air Force regulations). It'd save us from reinventing the wheel every time!

Quote from: Stonewall on January 17, 2009, 02:40:20 PM

Quote from: wuzafuzz on January 17, 2009, 02:08:21 PMOverly cautious?  Perhaps.  Here's why: I've met enough people in and out of CAP who bask in unearned glory by introducing themselves in a vague manner that leaves room for misinterpretation.

Example:
"I work for the sheriff's department" said while acting like a cop (open to interpretation), versus "I'm an evidence technician for the sheriff's department."

So, I prefer to state "I'm a member of the Civil Air Patrol" instead of "I'm a Captain in the Air Force Auxiliary." 

I understand what you're saying, to an extent, but I don't think it's all that necessary.  You could always say you're a "a captain in the Civil Air Patrol".  I do know of people who say things like "when I was in Special Forces", when he was an NQP (non-qualified person) at an SF unit and everyone believes he was an "operator".

That said, I'm sure this next part will really pi$$ off some of my fellow veterans.  I believe there to be this stigma attached to military service that has people believing it's so honorable that no one should dare talk about it unless you've served.  Serving in the military is honorable, I agree.  But so is being a teacher, a trash man, meter maid, corrections officer, or air traffic controller.  More so in the uniform discussions than elsewhere, you often see people saying "we are not the military" or "I don't want people to think I'm trying to be a real military officer".  My guess is that one out of a thousand may be offended.  I learned in government class "minorities have rights, but majority rules".  I'm not talking racial issues either, so don't go there.

Don't be afraid or even concerned with being a poser if you're not making an effort to be one.  If you follow the CAP regulations as far as uniforms, signature blocks, customs and courtesies, you'll be fine.  Respect the veterans and those who serve, that's great.  But do not fear them.  Don't worry about insulting them.  The military is not all it's cracked up to be as in it ain't that big of a deal.  There are tough parts of military life, but there are some who are more "civilian" than CAP members.  If you can get through a couple month basic recruit training, which I'm convinced most people can, then you too can see that it ain't no big thing.

Bottom line, don't worry about being accused of being a [military] poser if you aren't one.

AMEN  More people in CAP need to think like this.  Thank You Stonewall  for you thoughts

Quote from: "JAFO" on January 18, 2009, 08:29:17 PM

Quote from: Stonewall on January 17, 2009, 02:40:20 PM

Quote from: wuzafuzz on January 17, 2009, 02:08:21 PMOverly cautious?  Perhaps.  Here's why: I've met enough people in and out of CAP who bask in unearned glory by introducing themselves in a vague manner that leaves room for misinterpretation.

Example:
"I work for the sheriff's department" said while acting like a cop (open to interpretation), versus "I'm an evidence technician for the sheriff's department."

So, I prefer to state "I'm a member of the Civil Air Patrol" instead of "I'm a Captain in the Air Force Auxiliary." 

I understand what you're saying, to an extent, but I don't think it's all that necessary.  You could always say you're a "a captain in the Civil Air Patrol".  I do know of people who say things like "when I was in Special Forces", when he was an NQP (non-qualified person) at an SF unit and everyone believes he was an "operator".

That said, I'm sure this next part will really pi$$ off some of my fellow veterans.  I believe there to be this stigma attached to military service that has people believing it's so honorable that no one should dare talk about it unless you've served.  Serving in the military is honorable, I agree.  But so is being a teacher, a trash man, meter maid, corrections officer, or air traffic controller.  More so in the uniform discussions than elsewhere, you often see people saying "we are not the military" or "I don't want people to think I'm trying to be a real military officer".  My guess is that one out of a thousand may be offended.  I learned in government class "minorities have rights, but majority rules".  I'm not talking racial issues either, so don't go there.

Don't be afraid or even concerned with being a poser if you're not making an effort to be one.  If you follow the CAP regulations as far as uniforms, signature blocks, customs and courtesies, you'll be fine.  Respect the veterans and those who serve, that's great.  But do not fear them.  Don't worry about insulting them.  The military is not all it's cracked up to be as in it ain't that big of a deal.  There are tough parts of military life, but there are some who are more "civilian" than CAP members.  If you can get through a couple month basic recruit training, which I'm convinced most people can, then you too can see that it ain't no big thing.

Bottom line, don't worry about being accused of being a [military] poser if you aren't one.

AMEN  More people in CAP need to think like this.  Thank You Stonewall  for you thoughts

Ditto. :clap: :clap: :clap:

You know, that was a big thing on my mind when designing my cards. I was actually debating whether or not to even put "Air Force Auxiliary" on my cards.

I like to tell people first that I'm in CAP as a non-profit volunteer organization that gets called out to function as the Air Force Auxiliary. Last time I checked, there are now laws that no longer make us the 24 hour aux that we once were. If I'm not misunderstanding anything here, we only are AUX when we are on a mission.

It kinda stinks, but that's what happened. So I think that members definitely need to understand what exactly they can and cannot emphasize on something like a business card.

And I certainly don't pretend to be a poser, but I've certainly have heard some comments about CAP. Usually it is out of a misunderstanding on their part. We all should be presenting ourselves as what we are--no more no less. And I agree that by following regulations we should be fine--sometimes it's really just that simple but we all have been surprised before.

And as long as the official seal has Air Force Auxiliary on it, so will my business cards.

Quote from: stratoflyer on January 28, 2009, 05:41:28 AM
It kinda stinks, but that's what happened. So I think that members definitely need to understand what exactly they can and cannot emphasize on something like a business card.

The only thing required is that when printed, etc., CAP comes before USAF/Aux.

The relationship issue is primarily operational details and funding.  We are always the Auxiliary of the USAF, that never changes, we don't "function as it" we are it.

After people join we can put them to sleep with the socio-economic-political histrionics of our current relationship.  Those details don't change a thing about our ops tempo, uniforms, or who we are, they are just background noise.

^Thanks. Somedays I just have my doubts.

We do have a specific format and logos that are you be used. It was discussed at Wing. If anyone is interested, I do have the format in Word that I would happily pass on to anyone interested. Just send me a private message.

That specification would only apply to your wing if directed by the commander, there is no national specification for business cards.

Quote from: Eclipse on April 19, 2011, 01:55:50 AM
That specification would only apply to your wing if directed by the commander, there is no national specification for business cards.

this is...

Posted by Lt Col Paul Cianciolo on April 24th, 2009 filed in Public Affairs, Regulation Updates

The final version of the business cards to be used by all wing and squadron staff were approved today.  These are the only cards to be used by members of Civil Air Patrol's National Capital Wing.  Staff members may have cards printed at wing headquarters by e-mailing the wing administrator at wa@natcapwg.cap.gov.  Staff may also request the wing staff or squadron staff card files to print them at home.  For questions, contact public affairs at pa@natcapwg.cap.gov.

http://www.natcapwg.cap.gov/abovethecapital/2009/04/business-cards-approved/

Quote from: mclarke on April 19, 2011, 03:33:46 AM

Quote from: Eclipse on April 19, 2011, 01:55:50 AM
That specification would only apply to your wing if directed by the commander, there is no national specification for business cards.

this is...

Posted by Lt Col Paul Cianciolo on April 24th, 2009 filed in Public Affairs, Regulation Updates

The final version of the business cards to be used by all wing and squadron staff were approved today.  These are the only cards to be used by members of Civil Air Patrol's National Capital Wing.  Staff members may have cards printed at wing headquarters by e-mailing the wing administrator at wa@natcapwg.cap.gov.  Staff may also request the wing staff or squadron staff card files to print them at home.  For questions, contact public affairs at pa@natcapwg.cap.gov.

http://www.natcapwg.cap.gov/abovethecapital/2009/04/business-cards-approved/ (http://www.natcapwg.cap.gov/abovethecapital/2009/04/business-cards-approved/)

NatCap Wing is not NHQ. It is the District of Columbia and parts of Maryland and Virginia and is a wing just like yours or mine. Their regs have no bearing on those of us outside of the district.

Yep, sharp cards, irrelevent outside that wing.

 ??? Hm...forcing wing staff to use one type of card i can understand....but forcing squadron staff to use it as well? Does cadet fluffys dad who happens to be the assistant safety officer really need that one single card?

He may not need the card, but if he wants a card, that's the one he gets.

How many times have we complained about inconsistant marketing? Here's a wing that is trying to fill a small part of that void.

My opinion is that is fine. Ideally, I think National needs to put out an official business card template or set up with a major vendor to produce them at a discounted rate for those members needing/wanting them.

Am I seeing a contradiction in CAPR 900-2? Paragraph 3.c.10 says the seal may be used on business cards, but table 1 says no.
What seals or emblems may be used? May I use the MAJCOM emblem?

Quote from: CAPR 900-2, Table 1

CAP Stationary, Signs, Business Cards	Yes	Yes
Personal Stationary, Business Cards	No	Yes

I interpret it as follows:

If you are handing out the cards as a member of CAP for CAP business, then either the seal or emblem may be used.

If you are handing out the cards as an individual who also happens to be a CAP member, then only the emblem may be used.

YMMV.

I didn't catch that. Thanks.
Now about the MAJCOM emblem...

For business cards, the CAP Seal is authorized if your card uses your official CAP duty title. Otherwise, the CAP Emblem is authorized.

How and when you hand out the cards is not covered by the regulation.

Why would you hand anyone a CAP business card for any reason other than official business?

To pick up chicks.  ;D

No, I don't think we want them for the purpose of picking up chicks :P

Here are a few photos of Business Cards I have made for me or my squadron.  I know, they are probably way overdone, but ordering them online....let me just say, they do turn out nice ;)

Sorry if this makes the page load slowly... I can't seem to make the photos appear smaller.

(http://i55.tinypic.com/fwhjch.png)

(http://i52.tinypic.com/2h4cg3p.png)

(http://i52.tinypic.com/1562ywh.png)

And, the last one is kinda funny. It is for my brother when he gets his Spaatz award in a couple weeks. Notice how we incorporated the Spaatz ribbon colors.

(http://i54.tinypic.com/2qnsgbb.png)

Holy page loading Batman!

Quote from: elipod on April 21, 2011, 09:07:54 PM
Pictures almost crashed my browser...

I like those. A lot. Where do you order yours from? What program do you use to make those?

I would say I used Photoshop, but I didn't. I just used paint.net. (Its a free program thats a little more advanced than the original "PAINT" program). I just experiment, a lot.

I ordered my business cards from www.overnightprints.com (great service).

I wonder how many dress shirts and pants have been ruined when those things run...

Where is the actual information that is supposed to be on a business card?

Quote from: HGjunkie on April 21, 2011, 10:10:45 PM

Quote from: elipod on April 21, 2011, 09:07:54 PM
Pictures almost crashed my browser...

I like those. A lot. Where do you order yours from? What program do you use to make those?

Did crash my browser. Just FYI. ;D

Waiting for them to load so I can comment on them.....
Oh, wait. It actually will not load the pictures. Never mind me, ignore the man posting at the bottom of the page...

Quote from: Eclipse on April 21, 2011, 11:06:22 PM
I wonder how many dress shirts and pants have been ruined when those things run...

Where is the actual information that is supposed to be on a business card?

Either I have the info on the back of the card, or try to incorporate it into the front of the card.

Kinda defeats the purpose of a business card. It should present the facts in a clear, professional manner instead of looking like an art project.

Heh - this guy disagrees:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4YBxeDN4tbk

BTW, this thing goes right into the circle file after I enter his number in my contacts, assuming I keep it at all, since it probably wouldn't fit in
my pocket.

People don't keep business cards in files or Roledex's anymore, so making them works of art, especially when you aren't "selling" anything,
doesn't really serve much purpose.

Quote from: Eclipse on April 20, 2011, 01:50:41 PM
Why would you hand anyone a CAP business card for any reason other than official business?

Many moons ago, many gents had the symbols of the various organizations they were members of or supported along the bottom of their business cards. It would not have been uncommon to see a line of small symbols from Knights of Columbus, Rotary, Optimists, CAP, Masons, etc on the cards. Not a common practice any more.

Quote from: EMT-83 on April 22, 2011, 02:27:14 PM
Kinda defeats the purpose of a business card. It should present the facts in a clear, professional manner instead of looking like an art project.

Really? Yes, it should present in in a professional manner, but who says we cant have fun? :P

Personally, the flashy cards are the ones I remember. And if I remember the card, I will remember the person too.

Quote from: elipod on April 22, 2011, 02:52:18 PM
Personally, the flashy cards are the ones I remember. And if I remember the card, I will remember the person too.

Yes, that is a salient point in marketing.  CAP isn't marketing.  For what we offer we are the only game in town.

This is akin to the local PD or FD hoping you will "...choose them for all your law enforcement or fire suppression needs..."

Not having a business card when needed is unprofessional, but having one that is too flashy for the intention may work against
your purpose.

Quote from: Eclipse on April 22, 2011, 03:09:45 PM
Not having a business card when needed is unprofessional, but having one that is too flashy for the intention may work against
your purpose.

I'm willing to accept that you have a point there. :P

I must disagree. We DO need to market - we are a VOLUNTEER organization. Any way we can get people to remember who we are, what we stand for, and how to contact us, is fair game. Yes, we shouldn't go overboard, but there's no harm in flashy business cards.

Japanese Business card etiquette.
I found this to be interesting.
http://www.linguist.com/services-japanese-card.htm