Ways to Excel with Business Cards
You
have a box of business cards, fresh from the Solutions Business Imaging,
on your desk. So, what should you do with them? Business cards are an
inexpensive marketing tool, but they are only useful when they are out of your
hands and into the hands of others.
- Always carry a supply of cards with you, wherever
you go. You never know when you will have an opportunity to give one to
someone who may become a customer,
or who knows someone who may become a client. Having cards in your pocket
or purse means that you will never miss out on a chance to promote
yourself. Of course, keep the cards protected in a case. You do not want
to hand out a card that is wrinkled and creased, smeared with lipstick or
has an old breath mint stuck to it.
- Hand out cards at networking events, and anywhere
you meet potential clients. When you make a sales call, give a card to
your contact. Give one to the receptionist when you arrive for an
appointment, so they can refer to it when announcing you.
- Provide a supply of cards to friends, clients and
associates who are in a position to refer others to you. It will be easier
for them to do if you make sure they always have lots of your cards on
hand.
- Drop two cards in every envelope you send. Whether
to prospects, invoices to clients, or a check to a vendor, include your business cards. Do this with both your business and personal mail. You never know
who will open the envelope and find your cards.
- Add your cards to card displays at local businesses.
A local deli allows customers
to put a stack of business cards on shelves near the counter. Some simply
place a few cards on the shelf, others supply a cardholder to display them
upright and keep them neatly organized. I have also seen bulletin boards
and card holders at a number of other businesses.
Whenever you see a place that allows you to add your cards, do so.
- Include a few business cards in your media kit.
Sending cards when you send media releases or full media kits means the
media outlet can easily give your contact information to multiple staff
members who may be working on stories in your field.
- When you see articles that may be of interest to
your clients, send a copy with your business
card attached.
- Don’t hoard your business cards. Give them freely.