Continuing with The Ultimate Networking Strategies Rules of Engagement

Now after you’ve employed Rule 1 (Identifying & Qualifying Links & Prospects) , Rule 2 (Delivering your USP in the “Elevator Speech”) and Rule 3 (Protecting Your Time and Value)  it’s time to exchange business cards..but is yours up to it?

Rule #4 : Turbo Charge Your Business Card

First and foremost…in the words of Professional Communications Expert Bob Paff:

” Always Carry That Business Card! You never know where that next valuable relationship may begin…the gas station or the coffee shop? Everybody is just one person away from someone who needs your product or services. There is value in every relationship…So always carry that card!”

Now that you know to always carry that card…what does yours say about you?

Will it capture their attention?

Is it plain white with basic info? Try putting some color on the card or getting rounded edges to make it stand out. Your card should reflect your personality. Odd size cards, printing the info portrait instead of traditional landscape. Using other materials like metal cards make an impression! Remember…just like you ..you want your card to be memorable.

Does it have the right contact information?

There’s almost nothing more unprofessional than having the incorrect information and having to explain that “the  number is out of date but the email works.” With as inexpensive it is to print cards today you are saying loud and clear you are either disorganized or cheap. Most likely both.

Are you using both sides?

The biggest wasted ad space are the backsides of business cards and envelopes. The backside of your business card is an excellent place to put your calls to action. Call To Actions are your compelling offers. Promotions, free reports, discounts codes etc. Anything compelling that will get them to visit your website. This is also a great place to make limited runs specifically for special events or promotions.

Is it printed on quality paper?

Flimsy business cards scream CHEAP almost as much as if it said “Printed Free by Vista Prints”. Remember there is ZERO value in FREE in this case. Do you wear a tie off the salvation army rack to your business meetings? Of course not..so man up and pay the $30 for a nice set of cards…and don’t even think about printing them off yourself! Try thicker stock or UV coated…or a nice linen with texture.

Glossy Coated of Not?

I prefer a glossy or UV coating making the cards more durable, shiny and polished looking. Plus, if all else fails they can easily remove excess food from in between your teeth quite well. However, although if you do not put a Call To Action on the backside (which I strongly suggest) then I would suggest NOT coating the back side and include the word “Notes” in the upper corner. This way you have a writable service to put additional info. Lastly, keep your target market in mind…for attorneys who may be catering to a more sophisticated client…an off white linen card may be the thing!

Your Mug?

Years ago I was instructed to put my picture on my cards and email signatures. While an image may get hung up in an email, I am a believer with the business card..especially at big events where you meet and exchange cards with a lot of people. Remember , this is about being more memorable then the next guy and standing out. Also, after a two day conference and a stack of 100+ cards…I haven no idea what these people look like. Having your picture on there cuts through the clutter…and helps in the advancement of the relationship with you..which is the entire point!

Where Do You Get Your Cards?

Now, in a pinch I’ll use an online company like OvernightPrints as they are reliable, ship quickly and beyond affordable. However..don’t miss an opportunity to get local business! If you are a B2B company… then working with a local printing company allows you to introduce your business to them and chances are as you build a relationship with them you can look towards proposing some joint promotion in the future to their sphere of influence…I.E. Who are a printing companies clients but mostly other businesses? Remember, there is value and opportunity in every relationship! Look for connectors to your ideal market!

Be on the look out for the next post where we’ll cover THE MOST CRITICAL LAST STEP…that almost everyone DOES NOT DO…leaving tons of money on the table!!!

Coming up in following posts….

Rule 5: The Difference Maker ….how you will STAND OUT!

To Your Success!

Luke Harlan

The Strategic Marketer

p.s. Register Today at www.sbssregistration.com for the Small Business Survival Summit and use the Ultimate Networking Strategies!