Add This To Your Business Card

Image Credit: Savit Keawtavee
http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=1783 

Effective networking is the key to success.

When I think about networking, many of these words come to mind: conversations, connections, and opportunities.  The image of a business card is always present as well.  It is the classic networking tool.  Exchanging business cards after an opportune interaction is the perfect exit.  Sharing your contact information with the other party sends the message that you would like to connect in the future.

Now, with print companies offering extremely affordable business cards left and right, with freebies as well, it wouldn't surprise me if they outnumbered the grains of sand on this planet.  I'd like to say that everyone has a business card, but that's not true.  Everyone could have one, easily.  So with all of these competitive individuals out there, with easy access to this classic networking tool, how will yours stand out?

I realize that it is nearly 2012, and networking technologies are growing at a rapid pace.  I could write endlessly about the different technology features you could incorporate in your networking pursuits.  I definitely advise you to use personal landing pages, social and professional networking sites, social media of all varieties, and smartphone applications; these tools will give you an advantage, no doubt.  Having these mediums listed on your business card is a very good idea as well, but may not set you apart.

So how will you stand out among countless others if everyone lists the same sorts of contact mediums on their business cards?  Be memorable in person, of course!  People have a tendency to forget names and faces though, so the solution is to include something the others probably will not.

A short, thought-provoking, handwritten statement

This is a strategy that I have recently employed.  I usually carry about five or six business cards in my wallet at all times.  When I find myself with a few idle minutes I'll break one out, flip over to the blank side, and write.  I jot down a personal philosophy, a goal, or an interesting thought or idea that happens to be passing through my brain.

For example, the latest one I wrote was, 

Developing and maintaining mutually beneficial exchange relationships. 

-Steve Korchynsky's Definition of Marketing

I'm interested in all things related to marketing, and this little piece of information expresses that in a powerful way.  I imagine that anyone I connect with will find this personal touch to set me apart.

Anyone can print thousands of business cards.  Take some time to add a little something more than what the printer can.  It will add value to your networking tool, and in turn add value to you.