subject: 6 Useful Rules To Follow With Business Cards [print this page] Everyone has a business card these daysEveryone has a business card these days. Be it a corporate employee, top executive, small business owner or salesperson at the retail store, you can be sure theyd be carrying one in their wallets. Yet, not everyone knows how to use their business cards effectively.
If you really want to make the most out of your business card, follow these rules to ensure you use them most effectively.
Rule # 1: Make sure you ALWAYS carry one
especially when going to business events, such as seminars, conferences, meetings etc. You wouldnt want to be stuck in a situation where you meet a great potential client for your business, you strike an engaging conversation with him/her, and when its time to exchange numbers, you realize you dont have your business card. Theres no harm carrying a few cards to casual social events either.
Rule # 2: Hand them out in a Professional Manner
Dont just shove your business card in a random persons hand. Make it look effortless and professional when you give it out. Introduce yourself and your business and make meaningful conversation before offering your business card. And dont forget to request for one back from the contact, it shows you are as interested in them as you are in catching their interest.
Rule # 3: Ensure it has All Contact Details
Do you have a business card that just has your name? Then you are completely set to lose some key contacts. Make sure your business card contains all essential information such as your phone numbers, email address, position at the company, companys URL, etc. besides your name.
Rule # 4: Never Refuse a Business Card
no matter who asks for it. The person requesting it may be a newbie in your industry and you may not see the utility of giving out your card to him/her, but it reflects very negatively on you to refuse your card to anyone. Who knows, someone you think is inconsequential may be the key lead to a top client. Or they may put out a strong referral for you to someone senior in the industry.
Rule # 5: Keep them crisp and clean
Lying in your wallet, your business cards may get worn out with frayed edges. This will reflect very badly on anyone who you give them out to. Make sure you keep your cards carefully inside your wallets so that they are not damaged with extensive use of the wallet. Using a cardholder to store them will be a magnificent idea.
Rule # 6: Never compromise on Quality
You may be tempted to skimp on quality to save a few bucks, but this will be setting yourself up for failure. Remember, quality counts when it comes to business cards, and you want to project the most professional image of yourself and your company.
Stick by these rules for business cards, and see your card take you places in terms of professional success.
