The Competitive Edge

By Jeanette M. Coon, AICI

President/CEO

Professional Polish

 

You are your business card! It is the handshake you leave behind.

 

Your business card often leaves the most lasting impression of you and your business on the recipient. The purpose of business cards is to announce your identity, your presence and your intention to conduct business.

ü      Presenting your card during your first encounter with someone, indicates a willingness to continue a communication with the person at another time.

ü      Carry your cards with you for social events, but don’t hand them out unless asked to do so.

ü      Make sure your cards are clean. Carry them in a case to keep them fresh.

ü      Make sure your card is up-to-date.

ü      Present your card with the words facing the other person.

ü      Don’t write on the card in the presence of the other person.

ü      Don’t hand out your card during a meal; wait until it’s over.

ü      When you are visiting an office, it is customary to present your card to the receptionist so that you may be properly introduced. Another card may then be presented to the host.

ü      Enclose two business cards when you are sending a business letter or business materials to someone.