Today, businesses are run in vastly different ways from how they used to be in the 2000s. Since technology is developing quickly, it is important for business owners to stay up to date on the newest developments. But if there’s one old-school marketing tactic that still works like a charm, it’s business cards.
Believe it or not, custom business cards can be one of the best ways for businesspersons to network with potential clients or partners. In fact, 60% of small business owners feel that networking with business cards is a great way to make progress.
So, if someone told you that business cards don’t work anymore, here’s why it hasn’t… and won’t EVER.
A quick way to share information
Remember, nobody wants to read an entire pamphlet or article on what you sell or what kind of services you provide, especially if you wish to engage with people at a conference or business fair.
A business card contains only essential information like your company’s name, what it sells (in brief), and how your customers can contact you. That’s it.
This makes it easy for your interested customers to process information and also serves as a medium for you to make quick connections.
It gives a good impression
While conventional business cards are great networking tools, modern-day business cards can take your game to a whole new level!
For example, metal business cards or cards with embedded NFC chips are bound to attract people’s attention. It will not only help you network but also get you talking.
The cherry on top is if you combine contemporary formats with premium materials – it will help you attract top-level opportunities.
Serves as a good conversation starter
Often, marketers at networking events simply pitch their ideas with nothing to follow. This is where business cards can be a great icebreaker.
For example, if there’s an influential market leader or speaker with whom you wish to connect, give them your custom business card and start with small pleasantries.
If they’re the host of the networking event, compliment them for their effort and slowly drive into a conversation where you talk about the advantages your company can offer to people like him.
Looks more professional
When you display a custom business card, it also shows that your marketing team is immensely focused and detailed.
Not only does this make your company look more professional, but it also shows that you value other people’s time and opinions.
When you curate business cards specially for the receiver, it also multiplies your recall value in the mind of the customer. Business cards, if designed well, not only contain the name of your company but also showcase your brand values.
Generates leads
As a business owner, your primary focus is sales, and it’s no secret that business cards can help you drive that.
When distributed, a business card serves as a reminder to the customer that even if they don’t need your services at that moment, they can still contact you for any future purchases or queries.
This works perfectly for hesitant first-time buyers. If you also have a website, add it to the business card and let the recipient look you up on Google!
Builds trust and credibility
This might sound strange, but distributing business cards for networking is a must in many cultures!
In many Asian countries, if you customize your cards and hand them out during meetings or gatherings, the audience will see you as a trustworthy person or company. This is because it contains your contact, which means they can reach out to you even for complaints.
For example, in Hong Kong, you have to mandatorily give your card to someone who has given you theirs to continue your professional relationship.
Conclusion
Long story short, business cards worked then, and business cards work still.
Depending on your design customization, business cards can help display your professional behavior or customer-first attitude.
Beyond that, consult professionals for your printing requirements – the quality of paper and printing also plays an equally important role.
