Relax, There are Next Day Business Cards!

After landing from Africa in July 2009 from a business trip, I got to my office and learned that an international fair was coming to town. It is one of these fairs where you stand to win long-term clients. So, as I prepared myself for the event, I almost collapsed on finding out that I had no business cards left. Shameful, I know, but that was it. I called my local designer, and they said the best they could do was deliver in 4 days yet the fair was happening the next day at noon. I never attend such events without business cards, but I was not letting this one slip from under my feet. I went online and searched for “fast business card printing.” I remember like it was yesterday. Then is when I learnt about next day business cards.

To say the least, I had my cards ready 21 hours after I placed my order. At the end of the fair, I had netted six clients, some of whom I still transact with today. You see what I had almost missed? So, what is all the fuss about these cards? Let me explain why I have always used business cards and will not stop it anytime soon.

There may be phones and other gadgets that allow people to exchange information, but none does it so well than a business card. Concisely, it is easier for a business partner to follow up with the tiny card than it is using their phonebooks. That is one reason.

Second, reaching out for a bunch of the cards in a holder and pulling out a perfectly-done card appears very professional. If the client realizes that you took the time to list your details down and went against the grain of “dot.com” ways, they think you are unique. That is a sure way of being chosen!

In my case, I use business cards to keep track of my goals. I mean that I take a specific number of business cards with me to every meeting. In short, if my target is to win four clients, I take about seven business cards with me. I ensure that all of them are left with potential business partners before I exit the venue. Don’t you think I am quite smart?

Image courtesy of Inspiring Women

Well, I assume you understand why I almost developed a heart attack when I had no business cards left on me. You also can see why I had to use the fastest services. The advantages of the tiny cards are infinite, and I am a genuine witness to that.

Banner image courtesy of Pure Metal Cards on Flickr