Business Card Exchange: Top Tips for Making an Impact
In this video, Sandra Hart, one of Ireland’s top networkers (who also happens to be a good friend of mine), talks to me about her view on why business cards are of the utmost importance as a networking tool and how to use them for maximum impact.
The fact is, passing out your business card does absolutely no good if you haven’t made an impact on the person you’re passing it to–it’s just going to end up in the recycle bin. So, how do you increase your odds of making an impression and having others hold on to your card? Well, you can start by watching this video. Sandra offers some really great tactics for making an impact when handing your card to someone so they will remember you and look forward to your follow up.
After watching the video, I’d love to hear what you think of Sandra’s tips on what to do and what not to do when passing your business card out at networking events or exchanging cards with new contacts you meet in day-to-day situations. Do you have any additional dos and dont’s to share that you have learned in your networking experience? Please let us know your thoughts. Thanks!
Thank you for this advise. I want to add that I am careful about how I hand a person a business card, I present the business card like it is a gift by holding it with the information facing the person to whom it is presented. I, also, am careful how I receive business cards. I hold my hands out and receive it as a gift while thanking the person presenting it. I truly believe that this card represents the person. It tells me who they are and what they represent. It is a piece of them. I never leave a business card sitting on the table. I feel that this is one of the rudest actions that I have witnessed. It is saying: “I don’t value you”. Don’t ask for someones card, if you do not intend to value the information received. In my opinion, you should not offer your card, If you do not feel that you will receive respect from this individual.
Absolutely, and well said. Too often in one of our meetings I see business cards from visitors left lying on the tables where a member has taken one when they were passed around. If you do not want to follow up with the person, don’t take the card. Yes, it just a card, but it means something to the person passing it, AND it does cost money. If you are one who photos the card to put it into your contacts list, return the card to the person and tell them you did just that. They will appreciate both actions.
Thanks for the comments about respecting the business cards, and asking if they mind if you write on them; I never thought of the respect factor.
I am one who writes comments on cards so I can specifically refer to a point or two in our conversation to trigger their memory of me when I follow up, and I carry an ultra fine sharpie with me so I can write on glossy business cards.
Putting your picture on your card is valuable in helping people remember you, as is an actual place address so people can associate you with a place. This also helps if you travel, because it is easier to plan to meet with someone when you are back in their area.
Great video Sandra 🙂
Remembering that your business card is a reflection of you and your business I believe it is imperative that you get it designed professionally. It will be one of the best investments you make.
Spend time and money with a graphic designer and ‘allow’ them to do their job! It is what they have been specifically trained to do. Trust them to help make you ‘look good on paper’!
Great video. Sandra I love your accent.
The information is good and a few replies had good input as well.
I attended a seminar once on business cards. There are many cards that really do not tell you what the person does or the company industry. Those are ones I write on before I leave the meeting. As a memory jogger I add something we spoke of or maybe a piece of jewelry or tie I can refer back to later. I feel it lets them know when I contact them later I was paying attention.
Great Conversation Sandra and Dr.Misner !
I would like to add that when u present your business card to someone in a direction he can read it, you must hold it with two hands with fingers on both corners and thumps on the upper side. This shows you are presenting something of a higher value to the other person.
Great video, I definitely agree that it’s important to handle your business cards with care. They’re valuable, don’t just give them all away like candy. Thanks for sharing!