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I heard from some people that you are supposed to hand out your cards to everyone you meet.  Even if you only bump into them while waiting in line at the bank.  I seem to have trouble just handing out my card like this.  Does anyone do this and have you had any luck?

Networking is all about your people skills.  You don’t have to be the best looking person, or the smartest person.  You just have to be open to talking and listening to people.  Are you smiling, and welcoming a conversation with everyone you meet?  You never know when you will meet the perfect contact.  Or when the person you connect with will know a friend or relative who needs your services. 

If a person connects with you and feels that you are trustworthy and are really interested in them, they will take your card and remember you for a long time.  The key is being open.  Maybe the woman in front of you at the grocery store has a beautiful dress… compliment her.  Find something to say that you mean sincerely.

I’d also be interested in how elaborate your business cards are. I’d expect a colour photo and maybe embossed text.

Would you choose more features than that, like folding cards or different sizes?

Ricardo - 08 April 2008 09:29 AM

I’d also be interested in how elaborate your business cards are. I’d expect a colour photo and maybe embossed text.

Would you choose more features than that, like folding cards or different sizes?

I suppose this depends on your personal tastes. An agent can go through thousands of cards a year. If your budget allows for the higher end cards, go for it but I think what matters most is the impression you make on the potential client. An expensive card won’t get you any farther than a cheaper one if you haven’t connected with the client on a personal level.

I agree that business cards do not have to be fancy to attract attention.  I believe your card should be tailored to the type of business you have.  The full color photo, embossed text, and deckle edge would be great if you sell high end property.  Extreme fanciness may put off some of your ‘simpler’ clients.  The point of a business card is to convey information.

I think it is important to have a professional card with a photo.  In my area many local businesses have a billboard for putting up your card.

I don’t think you should hand out your business card to just anyone you bump into. Think about who’s your target, first, and then decide if you’re giving your card or not. Don’t blindly share them, people will ignore them. Also, a creative card will get you further than a plain, boring one.

Weird sizes and folding cards get thrown away a lot, because they don’t fit in wallet slots . . . so be careful!