Saturday, July 25, 2009

Business Coaching: Does Your Business Card Suck?

Does your business card say who you are, what you do, and MOST IMPORTANTLY how you can be reached?

I got asked to present my upcoming book "Influential Sales: Achieve Selling Supremacy in the New Economy" to a business association yesterday. I really like the President who invited me, and even though I knew it would make for a long week, I agreed to present.

I had a great time, and the energy level in the room was outstanding! There was a lot of positive energy that allowed for a great networking atmosphere.

I gave my presentation, the people were really appreciative and departed with a bunch of new tools to use in their businesses.

This morning, I am writing "Thank You" emails to the group to show my appreciation, and that's when it hit me. Most people's business cards suck! One of the aspects that I love about a card is that it should show not only who you are, where you work and what you do... but the MOST IMPORTANT part is how people can get a hold of you! In this Web 2.0 world, why would you put a card together that isn't complete? And by "how people can get a hold of you" I am talking not only about phone numbers (Work/Cell), but the all important email address. Also, if I've got to search your card to find this information your prospect won't take the time! I am very curious... Your prospect won't be! Spell it out clearly/concisely for them, and for gosh sakes make it EASY!!!

So here's a tip, look at your card right now... Can you see who you are, where you work, what you do and how people can get a hold of you (Phone/Email/Skype/Twitter...)? If so, great job. If not, throw out your business cards and design new ones!

Sam Palazzolo, MBA, CPLP, RODP
Pathos Leadership Group