Hello my networking friend. Most people link the business card with networking, and for good reason.

Read my "business card" check up list, to optimize your business cards while you network!

Your Business Card Check Up

1. Make double and triple sure your contact info is up to date!

Sometimes as our businesses grow, we get more sophisticated email addresses or modes of communication, and the poor business card is left out in the cold when the updates occur. Avoid this by taking a quick glance at your business card at least once a quarter and order new ones as soon as the info is outdated.

2. Set a rule for handing out your card.

A rule of thumb I like to use is that I never offer my business card to someone I've just met unless they ask for it. I'm not being stingy, my reasoning is that if this new person hasn't asked for my card or my contact info of any kind, I haven't done a good enough job of creating curiosity about my business, or they just aren't the right person with whom to further connect. No harm, no foul.

3. If you have a digital card, be prepared to explain exactly what the person you are trying to give it to must do.

Some of us are still old fashioned, and like the feel of a business card in our hands. Techy business cards are great, be sure to be patient with those unfamiliar with their use. If you aren't incredibly patient, you might come across as snobby and rude when the person doesn't understand how to place their phone on top of your fancy gadget. Explain with graciousness and you'll be all set!

4. Have a picture of yourself on your business card.

A picture makes it easier for us to connect your name with your face, and will make you easier to identify at the next networking meeting.

5. Always have plenty of cards with you.

The worst situation you can find yourself in is that the perfect prospect in front of you wants your card, and you are out.

6. Lay ten or so cards in front of you at least once a month, and see who you can connect with whom.

This is a great exercise. Start slow, and maybe those cards will sit in front of you for several days before you think of a good connection; that's ok! Be patient, keep trying, and all of the sudden you will get an "AHAH" moment, and you'll realize how to connect two people in your network who don't know each other in the most perfect of ways.

Once you've made the connection in your own mind, set to work writing the emails or texts to connect the two people. A group email is a terrific way to make a connection, just make sure you've gotten permission separately from both parties before you create and send the group email.

Go network my friend, and remember;

Your business card is an invaluable tool, take it out of the closet frequently and give it a good dusting so it can showcase you!

Faithann Basore and her husband Dave have owned Window Cleaning Plus (WCP) for 9 years. Growing WCP through networking has given Faithann the desire to guide other small business owners through the networking terrain so they can feel comfortable and build long lasting relationships in their business.

Got networking questions? Email me at [email protected].

Would you like 30 minutes to talk with me about your specific networking needs? Visit https://thenetworkerstourguide.com/smooth-sailing to learn more about a consultation that provides you with the right tools to confidently begin building relationships and cheerleaders for your business.