Despite changes in technology, a tried-and-true method of getting new contacts involves the exchanging of business cards. This doesn’t mean haphazardly passing out your card to anyone you encounter, as there is a specific business card etiquette you should follow for the best results and to assure that you are remembered in the best way.

• Don’t pass out your card to everyone you meet. Not only is this a waste of your resources, but it can also be annoying, as people equate this to getting spam email. Wait until you have had a chance to meet someone and talk with him or her a bit before handing out your card.

• You should also avoid leaving your business card in random places in the hopes that someone will find it and take advantage of your services. Doing so can reduce your credibility considerably.

• If someone asks for your card, give it freely, even if you have not yet had a chance to meet that person. When you do, it can also be a good idea to get his or her contact information in return, so you will have a way of following up.

• Write a personal note on the back to remind the recipient how you met or what you talked about. This will make that person feel special, and also makes it more likely your business card will be kept rather than tossed out.

• When asking for another person’s card, make sure you actually plan to use it for a legitimate purpose. Do not ask for cards just to make others feel better about themselves, and do not promise to contact someone if you have no intentions of doing so.

If you follow these easy tips, you’ll be better able to build leads and nurture relationships through the use of business cards. For more information, contact The Sherwood Group.

Over the years we’ve seen thousands of business cards. Given this experience, our friends at AllBCards.com decided to write The Complete Guide to Business Cards: a step by step guide to business card content, design, printing and distribution (102 pages). If you are a small business owner or an independent professional who exchanges business cards on a daily basis, then you might like to check out this guide.

If you enjoyed this post, you may also want to check out these others:

4 Tips for Entrepreneurs Looking to Grow Business
3 Ways to use LinkedIn Groups to Grow Your Professional Network
Greeting Cards: Are They a Thing of The Past?
How To Amp Up Your Visibility With Facebook
10 Surprising Social Media Statistics [Infographic]
15 Statistics That Prove You Need Mobile Email Optimization

This article is published by Will Sherwood | The Sherwood Group |Website Design | Graphic Design | Marketing Communications: The Sherwood Group has over 30 years of experience working with all sorts of companies, small and large. Our clients range from entrepreneurs to Fortune 500 firms, in nearly every business sector, from across the street to around the world (and yes, even Europe, China, and South America). Our goal is to create advertising,  graphic design, website design, and marketing communication that still looks fresh and relevant 10-15 years later. Our mission is to stir your imagination and leave your competition shaken and wondering,  Now what do we do?”  We are located in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

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