Your business card is your company’s secret weapon – when used properly.
Many people hand out their business cards to everyone they come into contact with whether the person wants the card or not. Your list of contacts and referrals will continue to expand if you start using your business card as an advertising and marketing tool.

Here are a few tips on how to properly hand out your business card.

1.Networking: When you meet a new person at a business meeting, the store or at an event, start a short conversation. Try to always ask for their business card first. Most people will be happy that you asked and it will be natural for them to ask for your card in return.
But, if they don’t ask don’t offer your card. You don’t want to be perceived as too forward. When you get their business card look it over and ask a few questions about their company.
Look over the card to make sure all the company contact information is there: phone number, email, website, etc. In case something is missing, ask for it so you can add it to the card.

2.Your Card: When someone asks for your business card politely hand them one and be ready to answer any of their questions.
Never try to sell anything when you first meet someone, unless they tell you they would like to buy something from you or they need your services. There is no need to sell someone when you first meet, at this point you just want to make a new contact.

3.Contact: It is important that you send your new contact a handwritten note within 24-48 hours. Inside the card write a short note thanking them for their time and express that you’re happy to have met them. Try to add a personalized touch from a part of your conversation. It is important to place your business card inside the thank you note, then hand address the envelope with the address on their business card.
Your new contact will be pleased that you took the time to write a note rather than sending an email.This is the first step in building a great, professional relationship.

4.Organizing: Keep all your received business cards in one organized file so you can easily reference back to the file. If you don’t hear back from your new contact after sending a note, ask if you can add them to your email list. Try to ask for their permission, it is not only respectful, but you don’t want to flood their inbox with unwanted mail. Then only send emails that are short and informative.

Next time you come into contact with someone use your business card as your company’s secret weapon. You now have the correct tools to hand out your business card and start building more professional relationships.

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