Unique business cards...

Stand Out -don't Stick Out

Hint... it's not all about your card.

1. The most important factor?

The person handing out the card.

You.

If you turn people off with your words and actions it really doesn't matter how cool your card looks. You are not going to make a connection.

You need to work on your own networking skills. Your personality plays a big part in creating the right environment for future business.

This is an entire or topic in itself but the basics boiled down to are you someone that this prospect can know like and trust in their business circle? A ready smile, firm handshake, willingness to listen and desire to help are the foundations of any good business relationship.

2. Next would be your card itself.

Look at your card. Would you feel comfortable giving it to the President of United States? How about some other head of state?

1. Is it all gnarled up and bent at the edges?
2. Maybe soiled from food or grime?
3. Phone numbers crossed out or addresses changed by hand?
4. Looks like it was printed on your cheap printer this morning?
5. Hard to read because the print is so small?
6. Dull, boring and forgettable?

If the answer is yes to any of these by all means keep it in your pocket. Don't lose credibility and a favorable impression with something as inexpensive as a clean crisp card. You don't need doors to be closed before you even walk through them.

Your card is your signature. There is only one you. You are unique and your business card should be just as unique.

Your business card can indicate that you are:

• a professional
• someone that pays attention to details
• successful
• accessible
• someone with an answer to their problem
• memorable
• full-time and not a part-time dabbler
• knowledgeable
• trustworthy

3. How you present your card.

Do you have to hunt around for your card looking through all your pockets and wallet?

Do you even have your card with you?

Do you hand it to them as a simple piece of paper or as a valuable resource?

The Japanese have this down to a science (and almost a ceremony) as they hand it to their clients with both hands.

I'm not saying you should bow to your customer, but let them see by your actions that this card holds information that will be beneficial to them and others.

This attitude combined with a smile, a warm and friendly handshake and a few words that convey you are sincere, trustworthy and willing to help will go a long ways to creating a mutually beneficial relationship.

Unique business cards are invaluable, but if you don't add the human touch that makes a connection, your card will be filed with the rest of their unused and unappreciated contacts.

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