How do you create focus with a business card?

Focus on one thing at a time will yield better results when you attend a networking event. Using your business card effectively is the key to being noticed at any event. Most people at an event will be exchanging cards and most cards will be printed in the same fashion. Either they will be white with the logo and contact information, or they will be too busy to read at a glance. Somehow you have to make your card more noticeable than the others.

When I was working exclusively for Power Marketing, I used their card. The card was professionally done with a great logo and design. The card itself caused people to say, Wow what a great looking card! That alone made me very happy. The back of the card contained more of the design but still allowed the recipient enough space to write comments or notes. I always make first contact after a networking event, and I still got comments about the card: what a lasting impression it made!

Your card is your introduction and if you look at the way business is done in Japan, the business card is not just a calling card, it is a presentation. They take time to honor your card and honor you as well in doing so. The card is a reflection of who you are. The exchange of cards usually means that they are interested in doing business with you.

In America we pass out so many cards that we often do not know who has them. I always keep track of who has my card and when they received it. Guess what: when I change companies or my card is updated, I have a ready-made list of contacts that will receive the new information. Its a great way to increase the number of touch-points.

The information on your card is just as important as the card itself. You must make sure that any web information is on the card. That means your website address and an email address. Without it, the card may be tossed! You are after ways to gain business relationships not cause aggravation.