Do you have a business card? If you do not you need to get one. You do not want to attend a networking group or interview without one. Your business card says something about who you are. It should have your name, title, email and phone number at the least on it. Some people like to place a saying about their business or what they are known for on the back of the card.
I thought this was a good idea and use to have a saying on the back of my business card until it was suggested that I leave the back of the card blank. This was done to allow the person who I left the card with a place for them to write a note on the back of my card. People write where they met you, their impression, or as a reminder to send your some type of communication. I left the back of my business card blank from that time forward.
I recommend using a high quality stock paper for your business card and recommend getting the card laminated too. Your business card will feel rich in hands of the person you give it to and leave a good first impression. Be sure to obtain the business card of the person you are speaking too. It is an opportunity for you to reach them again in the future.
I find that you also need a business card at the gym, while walking, in the elevator, at buffets,and the list goes on.
Thanks for this post
rosie´s last blog post ..Facebook Fan Page Review-Gurus for Hire
I agree Rosie. You business card is like the American Express Card. Don’t leave home without it.
Thanks for your comment.
Kevin
I find that business cards that are solid black on the back, and have a glossy coat tend to hold a lot of fingerprints. Last thing you want is someone to not want to hold your business card because its smoodged on the back. Also dark colored backs wont allow for writing notes like you suggested.
Gwen
Gwen Tanner´s last blog post ..Response cached until Sun 27 @ 23:08 GMT (Refreshes in 44 Minutes)
Great point Gwen. This is why the back should not be colored at all but white without any laminate on it at all. A card the smudges leaves a bad impression and possibly a stain too.
Thanks so much for your comment.
Kevin
I love this post and here’s why: So many people overlook the importance of the business card! You should ALWAYS have one available because you never know when you will be engaged in a conversation. I always leave the back blank. I use it to make a better connection with the person I’m talking with. I start to hand them the card, then say,”Let me add my cell to that.” and I HANDWRITE my number on the back! LOL
Martha Giffen´s last blog post ..The Attitude Is Gratitude
What a great idea Martha. It adds the personal touch to the meeting. Thanks so much for sharing this tip with us and your comment as well.
Kevin
I so agree with you on never forgetting your business card! There are so many opportunities out there! As for leaving the back side blank, that works well in the U.S. but not in all places, so one must be careful.
The Japanese’s business card is an extension of a person’s self, so there is a ritual to how one presents it, honors it, pauses to reflect on it, and displays it as one interacts with that person. Turning it over and writing on the back of someone’s card would be very disrespectful.
Just a little “tip” on cultural differences! 🙂
Barbara´s last blog post ..Father Knows Best- Memories of My Dad
Hello Barbara,
You are wise beyond your years. Thanks so much for the reminder about cultural differences in doing business. It is very important to be cultural competent.
Thanks for the reminder.
All the best,
Kevin