Business Card: An Omnipresent Marketing Tool

In essence, the business card is a marketing tool that you can conveniently use anywhere you are. This card, however, is not a TV ad that can continuously run in your prospect’s mind nor is it a newspaper ad that only has a restricted market. The business card is an omnipresent tool that can stay with your customers anywhere they are.

Keep in mind though that there is no knowing when you will meet a potential customer, so it is important that you have with you some kind of a marketing tool that you can give out to your prospect. The business cards are the only sophisticated tool that you can give out as your identity anywhere and everywhere. Never misjudge the importance of these cards as they can be your best chance to turn opportunities to cash.

• Give your card to anyone anytime, anywhere. There is actually no need be choosy in the people you will your cards. Remember that your goal is to reach as many people as you ca, and limiting your networking activities doesn’t help you achieve that goal. So, be sure to give your card to anyone you meet including your family, friends, partners, or just about anyone you meet. Never let your pride get in the way of your networking activities.

• Send them with your invoice. A good way to distribute your cards is to include them in your business invoice. Inserting them in your bill payments can be a great way to promote the products or services you offer. Even the though the person who received your payment doesn’t have immediate need for your offerings, he or she can always give your card to a friend of colleague that may need your product or service. Using this powerful networking approach is a great way to for continued networking success.

• Don’t forget to ask for referrals. The main objective of your card is not to simply give people a piece of paper that has your name and contact details. There are other purposes of your cards. For one, it can help you get referrals. From handing out your card, you can always consider asking the other person to refer you to someone they know who could use your products or services. A good referral system will help get in a better position and more chances of success.

• Do follow up. Have you ever asked yourself why people never call you after handing out your cards at a business event or trade show? Well, that could be your fault. You can’t expect people to call you after an event. You have to do it yourself. Keep in mind that networking does not end after you have handed out your cards. A follow up is needed to remind people of your business. Everyone is living a bus lifestyle these days, so they can easily forget about you. It can skip their mind that they need to call you. Don’t waste an opportunity here. Do the follow up your self. A gentle follow up doesn’t hurt. If you don’t get a response the first time, don’t give up. Try again. Be patient and follow up on your prospects until they give a feedback.

• Use a slogan. A catchy phrase or tag line in your templates can make sure people remember you and your business. So, don’t forget to put a slogan in your cards. A well crafted slogan can make or break your business, so be sure to create the best slogan.