Business cards are excellent networking tools.
Business cards are more than just a small card full of information. Your business card says a lot about you. The design, information and title of your business card will leave a lasting impression--and you want that impression to be as positive as possible. If you combine creativity with the proper use of titles and include the appropriate information, your business card can serve as a useful marketing and networking tool.
What to Write
Every business card should have a proper title. A proper title includes your name, your position and your company name. You should always use the name that you expect people in business to refer to you as. For example, if your name is John Smith Jr. and you always use Jonathan Smith in your business dealings, then use Jonathan Smith on your business card. If you are the CEO of your company, then you should include CEO or chief executive officer directly below your name. Include your company name below your position.
A proper title looks like this:
Jonathan Smith
CEO
Company B
You'd be surprised at how many people overlook proper titles. Business cards are an effective way to network at formal functions, business meetings and trade shows. When you hand over a business card to someone, you want her to remember who you are and what you do.
Other Key Elements
Aside from a proper title, make sure to include the following on any business card:
• Address. Include your street name and mailing address. Though a lot of business is conducted over email, snail mail is still needed to send important documents and packages.
• Website. In today's business world, you have to have a presence on the Web. Make sure that you include a website address.
• Email. Email is the most common means of communication for businesses dealings and customer services. Including your email address is a must.
• Phone. Cell phones are the first line of contact for business communication. Include your office number as well as your cell phone number on the business card. Do not include your personal number.
• Instant messaging. Internet chat sessions are used as virtual meetings. Include your instant messaging name on your business card, but make sure you use a shorter form of your full name instead of a cute nickname. Professionalism is the key.
