So you’ve decided to go local? Good! However, going local has its own set of challenges. Meeting people and introducing them to your services can be tough.
You know what the most difficult thing is? Getting somebody to pick up that phone and actually call you. Am I right?
Well, I’m here to tell you that I have a pretty good idea what may be causing this lack of phone calls… it’s your networking style…and one of your networking tools.
Watch the video to learn more:
What No One Tells You About Your Business Cards
The truth is, most people just don’t care about their business cards. It’s an after-thought. “I’m selling something- so I’ve gotta grab some business cards.” As a result, people make cards that… let’s just say… totally suck.
I’m here to tell you that business cards DO matter. And they can make or break a potential client’s decision to pick up that phone and call you.
Your business card leaves an impression with your potential client. If your card looks like it was made in MS Word, that impression is that you are either (a) too broke to make a nice card (so business probably is slow for you, which means you’re not good at what you do); or (b) you’re outdated (and therefore your products/services probably are too; or (3) you just don’t care (and if you don’t care about your OWN business, the one that pays the bills…how much could you possibly care about your CLIENTS?!?)
So how can you make a good business card? First, let’s look at what you shouldn’t do.
What Does a Bad Business Card Look Like?
When I say most people have terrible cards, I really mean it. Cheap paper. Looks like they went to the local office supply store and got the most basic cheap cards available.
One time, somebody actually gave me six different business cards. Six. For all of their various businesses!
If you’re handing out business cards, only hand out ONE. If you have many skills, what’s the number ONE thing people hire you for?
The person who handed me 6 cards gave me the impression that they didn’t have a CLUE what they were doing…that they were confused and not successful at any of their businesses. Not surprisingly their cards went in the trash because I only want to hire experts in their field.
A bad business card will look like it was thrown together in MS Word. I even had a graphic designer who threw me a card that looked extremely… amateur. In fact, I’m pretty sure he threw it together in MS word. What kind of message does that send? He’s a DESIGNER and he couldn’t even design his own card!!! <<smh>>
What You SHOULD Do When Making a Business Card
There are two things you should do. First, make your business card look attractive. Second, it needs to represent who you are.
If you’re an attorney, there’s no need for cutesy graphics.
If you’re making a business card, don’t be afraid to invest in it. Get a high quality professional design. Splurge on the thick paper. Pony up for colored ink. Make sure that it properly represents you and your business in the BEST possible light.
If you take your time, make some effort and invest in a great card, what message do you think that sends?
That you care. That you’re successful. That you value quality.
To make an attractive card, it needs to be readable, well-made, and to the point. So how do you make a business card like this? You will probably need some outside help. A great start is Moo.com.
Another thing to consider is hiring a professional graphic designer to design a card for you. Spending more money may seem counterproductive, but it will pay itself back in no time. I promise.
Once you have a good card, do not (and I repeat DO NOT) hand them out like candy.
I see people handing out their business cards like there’s no tomorrow. Truth is, this makes them look desperate. Give out your business card when someone ASKS you for it. If they ask for one, chances are, they actually want to contact you.
Here’s to your success!
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