Though I've been in business for a year, I've not really had a need for a business card. How often do you give your cards out and how often do others initiate the card request?

At face-to-face events, I usually take someone's card and save their info in my computer when I get home. Then I get rid of the physical card because it seems like clutter. Does anyone give out others' cards when referring them?

As you can tell, I'm waffling over purchasing them but I could be swayed. Thanks!

Because I so rarely use them, I created my own and print them out on Avery business card stock. I don't currently attend face-to-face networking events, but if I did I would hand them out there. I do mail them out when returning CD/DVD's to first-time clients. And I'll give one to the rare client that actually comes to my home office. Other than that, I don't use them.

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Pam Deyerle - Transcriptionist in Richmond, Virginia (17 years)
The Perfect Word Transcription Service

I have cards but I guess I don't use them very much either. If I went to networking meetings, I would give them out there but rarely pass them out otherwise.

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Stephanie Cogeos
Wordprocessing & Design

I do a fair amount of in person networking, and attend referral/leads groups, so I do hand them out there. But my philosophy is only hand them out if asked, so they last me awhile. I get mine done through Vistaprint when I receive those really discounted offers...so I've never paid more than $20.00 so I figure its nice to have them if needed or requested because some people seem to think you're not serious if you don't have a card...and I figure it may cost me a connection. Safe than sorry I guess.

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Pam Blackman - Pam Blackman Online
Online Marketing Consulting & Project Management

I use mine all the time. My husband and I are members of the Chamber of Commerce and we go for their meeting. So far, it hasn't done a thing for us.

I use mine all the time. I get mine through VistaPrint. They always have really great deals on them, and I have always gotten a really great product from them when it comes to my business cards. If I am on a networking torrent I can give out 250 plus business cards easy. Plus, I always have a few in my purse when I am just out running errands. If I see a place to leave business cards I will leave it. If I run into someone and need it I will give it out.

Also, I do keep the cards other people give me. Even though I do put them in a contact list I like having them. I keep them in my briefcase, and when I go networking or for a one-on-one I will give them as referrals. So if I get even multiple copies of someone's card I will keep them together, and give them out as I meet people I think could benefit from their services.

It's a great way to help others!
Rhonda

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I recommend using business cards and keeping a set with you at all times. When you're out running errands, having dinner, waiting in lines, you never know who you may strike up a conversation with. Even if it's a personal contact, it's great to have a business card to give them. Even if your contact doesn't have a need for your services, they may have connections who do. I always say the more professional you can afford, the better, because it's a message about who you are and what your services can do for someone else.

I am new to the forum and wanted to ask if anyone can share with me and give the advice as to what they put on their business cards, aside from contact info? Any specific wording or services offered? I don't want to add more than I need to but could use some help with wording or examples.

Thank you

I am also very new to the site and would love to know what should be included on a business card.

Originally Posted by nlmendez

I recommend using business cards and keeping a set with you at all times. When you're out running errands, having dinner, waiting in lines, you never know who you may strike up a conversation with. Even if it's a personal contact, it's great to have a business card to give them. Even if your contact doesn't have a need for your services, they may have connections who do. I always say the more professional you can afford, the better, because it's a message about who you are and what your services can do for someone else.

I completely agree

I also attend networking events, so cards are essential.

I purchase mine from Moo, I've found their quality heaps better than Vistaprint but they're still not expensive.

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