Tips for business cards - Web Design Forum Graphic Design Site Templates Flash CSS Discussions

thomas00 · #1 08-09-2010, 05:16 PM

Hello friends,
1. Never leave home without them. Before leaving home, your checklist should be expanded to include business cards, as part of "do I have my wallet/money, house keys, driver's license'" Any 'per chance' meeting is an opportunity to give out a business card. A morning run or a quick trip to the local store could be an opportunity to network. My wife and I always ask each other 'do you have business cards', before leaving the house. Make it a habit to carry business cards.

2. Insert a business card when mailing bill payments. Bills contain advertisements. Why can't you advertise your skills or services the same way' Insert a business card with your payment. You may not think a person in South Dakota who opens your credit card bill payment can help you. Never underestimate the power of networking. A movie, entitled '6 Degrees of Separation' points out we are 6 people away from knowing someone of influence. You could be 6 people away from knowing the President of the United Sates, your favorite movie star or someone who is in a position to hire your skills or services. Each of us knows someone, who knows someone, who knows someone etc. Developing this powerful networking attitude will be a fundamental source of continued success.

3. Use proper business card etiquette. Whenever you give a business card, ask for a business card. When given a business card, don't just take it and place it in your pocket. Make the person feel important by looking at their card for a few seconds. You might see something that could be a topic of discussion. Write comments on the card such as date, location and common points of interest. These comments will prove valuable when following up with that person. This also demonstrates a sincere interest in the other person. Then place it in your wallet. This lets them know they reside in a special place with you. "Skill with People" by Les Giblin is a book that expands on this approach. Make people feel important, in order to make yourself important to them.

4. Be generous. Give business cards out to everyone, including family and friends. Don't let vanity stop you from giving out your last business card or giving 2 at a time to each person. I have met many people who have totally missed the purpose of a business card. I once asked a person for a second business card, so I could refer his services. His response was "I only have a few cards left and I need them", as he looked again at his name on the card. Hoarding your business cards only makes your wallet feel full, not your bank account.

5. Ask for referrals. When giving a business card, people feel more comfortable when you ask; 'I would appreciate a referral, if you know anyone that could use my services'. Don't make people feel like they are on the spot. This approach disarms people much better than asking them, 'is your company hiring'' People naturally like to do favors for people. Saying 'could you do me a favor by referring my services to someone'. This always places you in a better position with them. They will feel better about helping you. Give them 2 cards.

Thanks

brunoclaus · #2 08-14-2010, 06:01 AM

I would recommend something professional. Do not just go to Kinkos for printing. Your card will be your first impression on the client. So you want your first impression to show you what he knows.

nancy34 · #3 08-23-2010, 11:48 AM

Hi

Use a compelling image that complements what you are trying to sell.

Use at least one hundred pound card stock and multiple, bright colors.

Picture business cards with photos that stir emotion are some of the most effective, but are not appropriate for all business images.

Use non-standard materials such as plastic or colored stock, even something out of the ordinary is bound to be kept and remembered.

Be different with shape, such as over-sizing the card or making it in the shape of your product.

Changing direction with a vertical card can draw extra attention.

Cards that fold in half or tri-fold can be like mini-brochures.

Produce multiple interesting cards that encourage people to collect them.

Utilize a noisemaker attachment, or even a distinctive scent, but do keep in mind that many people are allergic to perfumes.

Include all standard contact information such as a company name, address, phone numbers, fax number, website and e-mail as well as your name and title.

Include a logo, picture or graphic image that you will use consistently on all of your marketing materials.

Thanks

wendy34 · #4 09-01-2010, 10:32 AM

Hi

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Include a logo, picture or graphic image that you will use consistently on all of your marketing materials.
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Include an advertising slogan that stimulates an emotional response, announces a distinctive brand identity and acts as a directory to your specific customer.
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Keep it simple with no more than a few different fonts and stay away from unusual fonts that are hard to read.
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Use a font size large enough for people of any age to read with ease.
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Never use cards with outdated information.
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Keep information to the point and as brief as possible.
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Utilize the back of your card for product information, testimonials, a special discount or free trial of your service, a calendar or something that they will want to keep and use.

Thanks