Top 3 Ways to Optimize the Value of Your Business Cards

It is critical in today's super-competitive world to optimize the use of all the tools in your marketing toolbox, and your business cardsis no exception. Read on to learn about the best methods of maintaining, distributing, and exchanging your business card with clients and business partners.


Tip #1: Liberally Distribute


Carry some business cards with you at all times and always be on the lookout for distribution opportunities. Leave them on billboards at supermarkets, schools, stores, libraries, etc. - especially if you have lower-cost cards like silk business cards or glossy business cards (be a little more discriminating when distributing expensive cards like metal business cards or plastic business cards so you don't break the bank).

Include a business card with all your correspondence. People may throw away the letter, but will usually keep the card. Also, don't forget to distribute your card electronically - for example, scan it and use it as an attachment to all emails.


Tip #2: Exchange in a Professional Manner


There are many unwritten rules regarding the "proper" way to exchange business cards.

The first category of rules focuses on when to offer your business card. Obviously, whenever someone gives you their card, you should return the favor. Also, try not to hand out your card too quickly. It may be perceived as pushy, so try to establish a conversation with your prospect first.

The next set of rules focuses on how to distribute your business card. First, always give your card face up, ideally with both hands to give the impression that your card is very important. Next, always give 2 or 3 at a time so your contacts can subsequently distribute them to others (again, be less liberal with expensive cards like plastic business cards or metal business cards)

Finally, when receiving somebody else's business card, don't put it away immediately. Instead, keep it visible and try to use it as a conversation piece. Use the back of the cards you receive to write down important facts (note that silk business cards are usually more writable than glossy business cards). This will help enormously when you follow up with your prospects.


Tip #3: Handle with Care


It is critical to take good care of your business cards. Handing a potential client a torn or beat-up business card will certainly not enhance first impressions.

Purchase a cardholder to keep them clean and crisp, or get thicker cardstock to improve durability. Obviously metal business cards or plastic business cards are about as durable as you can get, but these tend to be expensive. A similar level of durability can be obtained with 15pt silk business cards or 14pt-16pt glossy business cards. Go with whatever style best suits your business.