The first use of business cards can be traced back to the early 17th century. These cards acted as bits of information left behind to help guide someone to another location via a trade route. Business cards today still act to help guide others, but today, we are looking for them to help guide more business to us. The fact is, most people take business cards for granted and rarely use effectively such that make a positive difference in their business. If you start looking at business cards as the effective tools they can be, you just might be surprised at how these little cards can make you BIG money.
Below are 3 ways you can use business cards at networking events more effectively:
1. Look at the business cards of others as they tell you what they do-This technique may seem a little awkward at first, but trust me, it works. When someone gives you their card, look at it, read their title, then ask them more about what they do. As they speak, hold the card up close to your eye level and shift your gaze between their card and their face. This technique acts to imprint their face with their card. The goal is for you to look at their card later and be able to remember what that person looks like. In addition, if you see them again, their info will pop into your brain when you see them. Practice this one and it will make you a WHIZ remembering people’s names and what they do.
2. Write specific information on the backs of the business cards that people give you-This technique has been around for some time, but I don’t see people utilize it often enough. Simply carry a pen with you at every networking event. When you meet someone and learn some specific facts about their business or even their personal life, jot down a note or two on the back of their card after you part. Then, later on when you are going through all the cards you received, you can review this info to help you remember these important facts. Nothing impresses people more than when you see them again and bring up a tidbit of info that shows you were truly listening to what they were saying.
3. Get creative with the design and use of your business card-Most business cards are the same. They are bland, boring and not memorable at all. Why not take some time and get creative with the design of your card? Use bright colors, raised print, or even opt for a fold-over card that goes into more detail about your business and what you do. Use rounded edges instead of pointed ones. Anything you can do to make your card stand out will make it memorable. Now, as long as YOU are memorable (in a good way) you are heading in the right direction to maximize your networking results!
Use these business card tips to help make your next networking event your most successful ever!
stephen labuda is an entrepreneur who built his businesses through networking. you can connect with him through his boston networking events website.
