How to Use Business Cards So That
Prospects Will Keep Them and Call You!
Advance preparation can make a world of
difference when it comes to using your business cards to attract business.
Remember, this is a marketing tool that people not only expect you to
have, but expect you to offer them. Still, many people miss opportunities
by committing the following mistakes:
-
Not having them with you
This may seem obvious, but it's amazing how many people are simply
unprepared to take advantage of chance encounters with likely prospects.
If you can't carry your business card case with you, tuck a few cards in
your car's glove compartment.
-
Thrusting cards at people you've barely
met
Yes, there are situations in which you're expected to pass out cards to
everyone present. Still, an exchange of business cards has far more
impact if you've taken a few moments to talk and establish some rapport.
You also take the risk of offending a potential client by coming across
as overbearing or pushy.
-
Handing them out when and how everyone
else does
This may seem like a contradiction to the above statement, but there are
literally HUNDREDS of ways to pass out your business card. You just need
to get more creative than your competitor. How about tucking your card
in related books at the library, or handing your card to the
receptionist at the doctor's office, or leaving one with your tip at a
restaurant?
-
Handling OTHER people's cards
inappropriately
When you receive a business card from someone, take a moment to look at
it. Make a comment. Tuck it carefully into a business card case. The
care with which you handle a prospect's card makes a powerful (though
subconscious) statement as to the care with which you'll handle their
business.
-
Losing track of business cards
Did Bill Gates hand you his card and ask you to call his special private
line? It could mean millions of dollars in business for you — but what
if you can't find the card? Unfortunately, business people lose sales
because they don't develop a logical method for sorting and organizing
their cards.
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