Business cards. Everyone in business needs one. Some believe they don’t. They are saying you can opt in to text a message to their phone and receive all their info. That’s good if you save all your texts. Not so good if they get erased.
As a frequent business networker, who is always on the look out for top notch entrepreneurs and business owners, I have some business card beefs.
- First, make sure you have plenty of them. It’s hard to believe a person would come to a networking event without them. If your new order hasn’t come in, make some up on the computer. Something is better than nothing.
- Pertinent information is YOUR NAME, Cell Phone Number, EMAIL ADDRESS, Website (if applicable). Email is a must nowadays. If you do not want to give out your email address, why are you in business? Your cell phone makes it easier to get a hold of you. If you cannot take the call, let it go to voicemail.
- Gloss is pretty but not on the back of the card, please. Most serious networkers like to take notes. What if you asked for a referral and they couldn’t write a note on the back of your business card? They will forget. Matte only on back and not too much printing if any.
- Create a card that reflects YOU and not your company. What if you changed companies? What if your company went out of business? What if you got bored with your company?
- If you are a network marketer and are using a replicated website, buy a domain name and forward it to your website. Distributor names are impossibly long. Make your domain and email address as short as possible. This goes for any business domain name. The shorter the better.
- Make sure your information is readable. Your phone number in a tiny font is hard for anyone over the age of 40 to read. Yellow print is also mpossible to read. Same goes for script type. Clear and easy to read is best.
- The standard business card size is better. I know it’s cute to have unusually shaped or sized cards, but they are tough to fit into a plastic card holder. They are also unfair for raffle prizes. LOL
- Some people believe that a picture is not appropriate, but I say pictures are great. I like to place a name with a face. Just me and my fading memory. Plus, if you want to find the person at Starbucks, a picture is a great help.
- Flyers? Honestly, they usually get thrown away. Too much paper. Unless it is for an upcoming event, business cards are easier and more effective.
Would you like to network with others who are on a mission to help you succeed? Give Rebecca Olkowski at call at 818-515-7880
About Rebecca Olkowski
I'm a 30 + year voice over actor, blogger, WordPress Blog Consultant and a gal who loves to have fun. I'm on a mission to travel the world in style. Can you give me a lift?
Hi Rebecca,
Great tips in regards to business cards. Some of your beefs in regards to business cards are some of my own.
Too small print and too many numbers and info. I agree an email address is essential as well as the cell phone.
Thanks for these practical tips.
Faith
.-= Faith Barnard´s last blog ..The New Smart SEO, Social Engagement Opportunities =-.
This is great. I have gone to networking events and many people wouldn’t have any business cards with them, but yet they want everyone else to give them a card. Like you said something made up would be better than nothing. It also makes sense not to have the gloss finish on the backside. Thanks for sharing.
Karen
.-= Karen Smith´s last blog ..We often only say Thank You! =-.