If you’re a business owner, then you will understand the importance of networking. After all, networking will help you meet new clients and business partners who can take your business game to a different level.
According to a report, a small firm can increase its sales by 25% for every 2000 cards given.
But simply giving out these cards to individuals won’t do the trick. You also need to know how to network with them.
So come on, let’s see how to network effectively with the business cards of your brand!
1. Keep the design simple
One of the biggest mistakes that company owners make is to print out business cards that are not only overly colorful but also difficult to read.
Remember, the primary purpose of giving your cards is to interact with more people. And if the receiver of the cards is unable to read or make out anything useful from them, they’ll simply discard it and move on to the next company.
Therefore, keep the color palette simple and choose colors that reflect your brand identity. The fonts should be clearly legible and evenly spaced. Try not to go for cursive fonts.
2. Make the cards specific
Even though this can be slightly expensive, printing different kinds of business cards for each industry is always better.
If you work or freelance in multiple industries, then it’s best to make a separate card for each industry.
For example, if your area of expertise is marketing but you also freelance as a product tester in a separate company, you need to print two stacks of cards, each highlighting your two strengths.
Otherwise, the person receiving the card can get confused about your job. This will help you to make connections in multiple fields.
3. Choose the color palette wisely
This might not sound like much but choosing the appropriate color palette can go a long way in making new networks.
If you’re a professional from the corporate industry, you can opt for a simple black-and-white design on glossy paper. This will make your brand look stylish.
But if you’re running a company that supplies art essentials, then don’t hesitate to make your cards look colorful. Use creative fonts in different colors and experiment with different designs.
But even then, every card must be easy to read, and the font color contrasts with the background.
4. Always keep a stack with you
No matter where you go, never forget to leave your home or office without carrying a bundle of business cards. You never know when you might have to hand out a few to important clients.
Moreover, even if you don’t have to give the cards to anyone on a particular day, keeping a stack with you doesn’t hurt.
If you take out your cards in an important client meeting, they will also be impressed with your networking skills and professionalism.
However, ensure that the cards are neatly kept in a box and not torn or dog-eared while in the open.
5. Include your company logo
Your business most definitely has a logo, and it only makes sense to include it on your cards.
See to it that you follow company guidelines when it comes to printing the logo because most companies have strict rules and regulations.
Even if you don’t have a professional logo, you can add a logo-like image or symbol to make the cards look better.
For example, oversized letter emblems or shaded lines and shapes can make your business cards look beautiful.
If you’re printing on glossy paper, you can try making the logo stand out by keeping it matte.
6. Follow up with your connections
As mentioned earlier, simply distributing your cards is only a part of the entire networking game. If you wish to maintain those networks, you must take some extra steps.
First, when you give out your business card to someone, politely ask them if they can give it to you.
Once you both have exchanged cards, it’s time to look at the card carefully and see which of their products and services could align with your needs.
Next, send a follow-up email or a message on their website to strengthen your new relationship.
Over to you…
Even though many people might consider business cards old-fashioned, they’re one of the simplest and most powerful tools to increase your proficiency. So if you don’t have your cards printed out yet, do it today!
