People, Power and Possibilities with Donna Fisher I found a business card in my pocket the other day and I have no idea where it came from and no idea who the person is. There are no handwritten notes on the card to give me a clue as to where I got the card. Because there are no notes on the card, I tend to think the card was given to me without a chance for me to interact with the person. I don’t like it when that happens because I know that I missed out on an opportunity to connect with someone. Passing out business cards is not networking. Connecting with people so that we can be resources for one another is networking. Business cards are the tool that we use for exchanging information so that we can follow up and stay in touch. Rather than passing out business cards focus on gathering information and connecting through conversations, By connecting with someone first, the business card exchange will be more meaningful and therefore remembered. Generate an interesting conversation and listen for an opportunity to be a resource. Tell the person what you can do for them and then ask for their card so that you can follow up with them. Example: Regarding your music project, I know someone that could be a good resource for you. If you’ll give me a card, I will get back with you with her contact information. Be a conversational networker and have the business card exchange fit into the natural flow of the conversation. Example: That’s interesting. What you’re looking for sounds similar to the products offered by Jane Doe’s company. I would be glad to have her give you a call. Do you have a card handy? If you do want to give your card to someone, let them know why. Example: You mentioned you send out an email newsletter. I would be very interested in your information. If I give you my card, would you add me to your list? Tip: Don’t pass out business cards! Focus on making connections, gathering information and being a resource. Then the exchange of the business card will feel natural and will be meaningful. And then your business card will never be one of those mystery business cards that shows up in someone else’s pocket, purse or briefcase!
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Saturday, April 25, 2009
PEOPLE, POWER AND POSSIBILITIES: The Mystery Business Card
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2 comments:
Wonderful common sense advice -- I like the subtle distinctions you make between various ways of handing out a business card. Thanks!
Good information on turning business card exchanges into business-building exchanges!
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