Using Other People’s Business Cards

Getting your business card is pretty much a rite of passage for any small business owner.  You may be itching to give it out to anyone and everyone you can.  That’s certainly a fun approach, but there’s an art to the business card.  In this article, we’re looking at how you can use other people’s cards to grow your own business.

Most businesses can benefit from connections with other businesses.  You may find a new vendor who can give you a great discount, a company that could carry your line of products, or even an individual who would benefit from contracting your services.  Business cards are a great way to get their information and to stay in touch.

People love to be asked for their business card.  After engaging in conversation for a while, go ahead and ask for one.  Oftentimes, the person will respond in kind, and you’ve now hit their radar screen, as well.  Thank them for the card and look it over.  Make sure all of their contact information is included.  If you really like their card, logo, etc., make a point to tell them.  People are generally pretty proud of their branding, and noticing will make them like you all the more!  

Ask the person for permission to contact them.  You could easily assume that they are open to your calls, since they gave you the card, but professional courtesy dictates that you should still ask for permission.  After looking at the card and asking any pertinent questions, put it into a card holder or wallet.  Just sticking it in your pocket or purse will look far less professional.  In some cultures, there are very strict rules about how to handle a business card, but Americans aren’t usually quite that formal.

When you get home or to the office, file the card.  Make any notes that might be helpful when contacting the person in the future: where you met, what you talked about, important mutual friends, etc.  This will allow you to sound knowledgeable and friendly when you call, as well as to remind the other person of who you are.

If the person has done something for you, such as set you up with a contact or insinuated that they may be interested in doing business with you, it’s a good idea to follow up with a hand-written note card within 24-48 hours.  This shows your professionalism, work ethic, and enthusiasm.

Oh, and you’ll want to include YOUR business card in the note.