It’s All About You!....and your business card

About 15 years ago, I was meeting a new client for the first time and he reached into his wallet and carefully removed two cards and said these words to me…..words that I’ll never forget.

“Here is a card for your file and here’s an extra one to pick your teeth.” Of course this was in my Accounting business years; I think he would think twice about saying that to me now. Yes, his technique was brash, but he did catch my attention.

Differentiating yourself from others is very important in our competitive global economy. Saying something that people remember is a serious business goal when meeting someone, especially for the first time. Develop a statement that you say when you hand your card to someone, something memorable and polished.

Here’s my card

When you present your card to someone, you want your card to: 1) stand out among other cards and 2) always represent you as a professional. The recipient remembers how you hand the card to them, the words you say and if they take a look at your card (which they should) the look and design of the card itself.

Presenting your card

Here are some tips about your card and presenting it….

• Keep your cards easily accessible

• Keep information updated on your card – avoid scratch outs

• Keep your card dog-eared free; all crisp edges

• Present your card with your name facing the recipient

• Look the recipient in their eyes when you hand them your card

• Say something memorable and distinguishing

Your card represents you

It is so simple, but all these skills really matter. They make a difference. I have personally witnessed great card exchanges and some not so great (read as tooth picking) deliveries. Handing your card is a package deal….it is you, the card and your words. Select your cards and words carefully.

Joan R. Stokely (jrs@thesocietyofdiplomacy.com) is the President of The Society of Diplomacy, Inc., a protocol and etiquette consulting firm. We offer extraordinary training programs for corporate professionals who desire greater success in their careers. Increase your knowledge of business protocol and etiquette, your corporate image, international intelligence and social skills by attending programs specifically designed for you.

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