Personal Business Cards » Business People http://www.opedletters.com All about personal business cards information Tue, 12 Jul 2011 06:38:53 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.8.4 en hourly 1 Why Business Etiquette Matters http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/why-business-etiquette-matters http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/why-business-etiquette-matters#comments Sat, 17 Apr 2010 14:34:07 +0000 admin http://opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/why-business-etiquette-matters

Today, most people pay little attention to social or business etiquette. While some elements of traditional etiquette may seem dates and pre-”high tech”, they are worth reviewing – and incorporating into your daily business life.

Telephone calls.

With the exception of “cold calls”, all calls received should be returned within no more than twenty-four hours. This applies to “internal” and “external” calls. Of course, calls to customers – current and potential – should be returned first.

Office Visits

When visiting someone’s office, whether a customer, boss or “internal” customer, take no more time than is absolutely necessary. Treat other’s time as if it were your own.

Bids

When you bid on a job, follow-up directly with the potential client or customer. When you are in receipt of a bid, follow-up with the vendor or consultant whether they win it or not. If the bid is delayed, communicate this fact to the vendor or consultant.

Resumes

When you post a job opening and you interview someone by telephone (screening) or face-to-face, follow-up the interview with either a call or e-mail. When you have selected a candidate, let those you interviewed who did not get the job know that you selected someone else.

Meetings

Schedule no more meetings than absolutely necessary. Make your meetings brief and to the point with an agenda and a time limit.

Conference Calls

Schedule conference calls when they are most convenient for all participants. If you have participants globally, schedule them at different times to share the inconvenience among all participants. Send out an agenda and time limit in advance. Make sure all participants are on time and remain for the entire call.

Customers

The customer is first in all things. Ahead of the boss. Ahead of subordinates. Ahead of suppliers. Even ahead of your family and personal life. They pay the bills. Do not ever inconvenience a customer.

Email

E-mail is both a blessing and a curse. Those who worked prior to e-mail remember regular mail drops and office couriers. Respond to all customer e-mails within no more than twenty-four hours. Respond to all other e-mail sent directly to you (excluding “spam” and mass group e-mailings) within forty-eight hours. Only address emails to those who absolutely need the information (response, request or whatever) within them.

Time

Respect the time of others. If you are going to be late, call them to let them know. If you must leave a meeting early, let the “owner” of the meeting know in advance. And if an appointment or meeting must be cancelled, let the participants know as far in advance as possible so they can rearrange their schedules.

Business etiquette may seem basic but increasingly, business people think of themselves and not others. Not their clients or customers. Not their employees. And not their vendors or suppliers. Business etiquette is often rewarded by others behaving in a similar manner. Take the first step by making an example through your actions and those of your team.

By: George F Franks III

]]> http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/why-business-etiquette-matters/feed 0 Personal Business Cards – The Way to Stand Out From the Crowd! http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/personal-business-cards-the-way-to-stand-out-from-the-crowd-2 http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/personal-business-cards-the-way-to-stand-out-from-the-crowd-2#comments Sat, 26 Dec 2009 16:55:58 +0000 admin http://opedletters.com/?p=149

Are you looking for a way to stand out from all the other businesses you are competing with? Do you have a creative mind, but you are just struggling to connect the dots to get that edge you want? There is a way to use personal business cards to help you stand out from the crowds of other business people and make sure that you are remembered. Here is what you should know.

You have to start by understanding that most people have stacks or books of business cards that they have received. This means that you have a lot of competition to make sure you are remembered. The problem with business cards is that when you give them to someone they usually end up in the back pocket or in their purse unless you are someone they know they are going to do business with. This means they become forgotten and when they really do need your services they don’t even remember they have your card, if they still do.

Next, you need to know how to get an edge in this game and make sure that your personal business cards stand out from your competitor. There are many ways to do this and it all depends on your type of business and what you provide for your clients. For example, if you are a photographer, then take one of your best pictures and have it put on your business cards. This will personalize them and it will help you stand out from those that just have plain cards.

Last, with personal business cards you have to understand that there is more than just design that goes into them. You could have them made on plastic, into magnets, or out of any material you want. If you really want to get creative, then you could make them double as a coupon and as a sample of your work. This, of course, does not apply to all businesses, but the point is that you have to stand out from all the other businesses out there.

]]> http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/personal-business-cards-the-way-to-stand-out-from-the-crowd-2/feed 0 Personal Business Cards – The Way to Stand Out From the Crowd! http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/personal-business-cards-the-way-to-stand-out-from-the-crowd http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/personal-business-cards-the-way-to-stand-out-from-the-crowd#comments Thu, 10 Dec 2009 06:41:23 +0000 admin http://opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/personal-business-cards-the-way-to-stand-out-from-the-crowd

Are you looking for a way to stand out from all the other businesses you are competing with? Do you have a creative mind, but you are just struggling to connect the dots to get that edge you want? There is a way to use personal business cards to help you stand out from the crowds of other business people and make sure that you are remembered. Here is what you should know.

You have to start by understanding that most people have stacks or books of business cards that they have received. This means that you have a lot of competition to make sure you are remembered. The problem with business cards is that when you give them to someone they usually end up in the back pocket or in their purse unless you are someone they know they are going to do business with. This means they become forgotten and when they really do need your services they don’t even remember they have your card, if they still do.

Next, you need to know how to get an edge in this game and make sure that your personal business cards stand out from your competitor. There are many ways to do this and it all depends on your type of business and what you provide for your clients. For example, if you are a photographer, then take one of your best pictures and have it put on your business cards. This will personalize them and it will help you stand out from those that just have plain cards.

Last, with personal business cards you have to understand that there is more than just design that goes into them. You could have them made on plastic, into magnets, or out of any material you want. If you really want to get creative, then you could make them double as a coupon and as a sample of your work. This, of course, does not apply to all businesses, but the point is that you have to stand out from all the other businesses out there.

]]> http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/personal-business-cards-the-way-to-stand-out-from-the-crowd/feed 0 Exchanging Business Cards: Etiquette Tips http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/exchanging-business-cards-etiquette-tips http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/exchanging-business-cards-etiquette-tips#comments Wed, 09 Dec 2009 02:58:39 +0000 admin http://opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/exchanging-business-cards-etiquette-tips Some people think you should give your business card to anyone that will take it. Others say to only give it to people who ask for it. Otherwise, you’re just wasting your business card printing budget on people who are just going to throw your card away anyway.

The key to getting people to want your business card is to ask them for theirs first. Most likely, that person will ask for your business card in return. Then your card can get to work for you and you can work on making a new business contact.

Once you get a business card, there are some etiquette rules you should follow. Read on to learn how to take and give a business card with style and grace.

After engaging in small talk with someone new, ask them for their business card. Most people are pleased when asked for their business card and they’ll be happy to give it to you. This opens up the opportunity for them to ask you for yours in return. If they don’t ask you for yours though, don’t be pushy. After all, you still have their contact information now so you have an open door of communication.

Thank the other person for giving you her card. When you get a business card, say thanks and take time to read it – front and back. It’s nice to comment on the card; you can comment about the card design, beautiful colors used or the logo. If the business card is less than stellar, and you can’t make a comment, ask a question instead. No, not “Why did you pick this hideous green?” But ask them how long they’ve been in their position or with their particular company. If something is missing from the card, like an email address or Web site, ask for it then and there and add it to the card.

Ask if you can contact that person. Even though you assume it’s okay to contact the other person since they just gave you their card, it’s professional etiquette to ask to contact them. You don’t need to ask that directly though; one good way of asking for permission is to ask for the best way to contact that person – phone, email – or what time is best to contact. This way you’re showing respect and you’ll be remembered for that respect.

Don’t launch into your sales pitch when they ask for your card. Asking for your card is not asking about your latest and greatest product. Never try to sell something while exchanging business cards unless you’ve been specifically asked for more information about your product.

Send a note within two days. You can either mail them a card or send them an email to say you enjoyed meeting them. Jot down something you talked about to jog their memory. If the person didn’t ask for your business card, you can send it to them in the note. Sending an actual card or note through snail mail is more personal than email, and the person is more likely to remember you because of it.

Keep all business cards you collect in a Rolodex or file. You can even buy a business card album that has business-card–sized pockets. You never know when you’re going to need their business! You can file them in alphabetical order by name, or you can file by occupation or industry. This makes it easier to contact someone in the future.

For comments and inquiries about the article visit: Business Card Printing



By: karen grahams

]]> http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/exchanging-business-cards-etiquette-tips/feed 0 10 Tips for Getting the Most Marketing Benefit from Your Business Cards http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/10-tips-for-getting-the-most-marketing-benefit-from-your-business-cards http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/10-tips-for-getting-the-most-marketing-benefit-from-your-business-cards#comments Sun, 06 Dec 2009 03:59:31 +0000 admin http://opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/10-tips-for-getting-the-most-marketing-benefit-from-your-business-cards Business cards are among the least expensive marketing tools a business person has at his disposal, yet they are typically very poorly used, if they are used at all. Here are some tips for maximizing the marketing power or your business cards.

1. Carry your business cards with you at all times. This sounds obvious, I know, but you would be amazed how often a business person doesn’t have business cards on hand when they are needed. Even if you manage your contacts through your PDA and you love to “beam” your contact information to others, still keep those business cards in your wallet, business card holder, pocket, briefcase, and car.

2. Make sure your employees, spouse and close associates also carry your business cards with them. I have picked up more than one client who learned about me through a conversation with my husband, who reached into his wallet and handed over a business card.

3. Hand out a business card as you introduce yourself at meetings and networking events. Not only do people appreciate seeing the name they just heard, but putting a business card in someone’s hand as you introduce yourself engages three senses while you have their attention (hearing, sight, and touch). The more they are engaged, the more likely they will remember you, which is the point, remember?

4. Consider having your photo printed on your business card. People like to see who they are working with. Seeing your picture later will help them remember you. Also, it has been documented that seeing a photo on a business card and a website tends to help people develop trust faster than when they don’t see a picture. If you are concerned about your appearance, do something about it or get over it. Touch up your rough edges with some photo editing software if you must, but get your face out there!

5. Be creative with your business cards. Of course, you want to make sure that your name and contact information are legible, but you should use the opportunity to express a bit of who you are with your business card. Maybe you can do that through a creative use of color or your logo. Perhaps you will want to add a unique slogan. Consider a double-sided card design. I saw a card recently with contact information on both sides. I saw another with a web address on the back. The back is also a good place for a catchy slogan.

6. Leave cards behind when you call on someone who is not there. Write individual notes on these cards to make them more memorable and personal. Be sure to use the other person’s name n your handwritten note.

7. Hand a card to the secretary when you arrive for an appointment. This will help her get your name right when she notifies her boss that you are there. It also makes sure your contact information is in the hand of the person who will probably be entering it into the data system. By the way, business cards are the business descendent of calling cards, small cards with the visitor’s name on them, which were used to announce the visitor to the person being visited. Presenting a card when you arrive for an appointment demonstrates a little class and etiquette.

8. Include a business card in greeting cards you send to customers or prospects. Especially if your business card has your photo on it, this will help them remember who you are, and remind them of your contact information. If they misplaced your card, this is a way to get it to them again without forcing them to ask for it. Also include your card with gifts you give to clients.

9. Look for opportunities and appropriate places to leave your cards behind for others. The right places for this will depend on your business and target market. You can ask business owners to allow you to leave cards in a holder on their counters. This is particularly appropriate if you have a complementary (but not competing) business. Also, don’t be afraid to leave one or two laying around here and there (on bulletin boards, near ATMs, etc.). It’s a good place if it is somewhere where your clients or prospects will be.

10. Use your business card for ads in newsletters and local publications. The term “business card size” is a common term for one of the sizes of ads available in most publications. You don’t have to use your business card for the ad copy, but if you have a good business card (photo, nicely designed, easy to read), why not?

There are many ways you can use business cards to help market your business. Don’t be stingy with your cards. Hand them out freely. Personalize them with notes. Don’t assume that just because you gave someone your card in the past that they still have it, or that they transferred the contact information before misplacing the card. You will undoubtedly see a rapid return on your investment as you begin to use your business cards more.



By: Veronica Robbins

]]> http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/10-tips-for-getting-the-most-marketing-benefit-from-your-business-cards/feed 0 The Effects of a Personalized Business Card on Business http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/the-effects-of-a-personalized-business-card-on-business http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/the-effects-of-a-personalized-business-card-on-business#comments Sat, 28 Nov 2009 18:45:05 +0000 admin http://opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/the-effects-of-a-personalized-business-card-on-business Giving out business cards to potential clients and customers can be a great way of promoting business. By giving out personalized business cards, people are not only promoting their respective business but also making sure that the card can speak for itself and can convey a message that the business wants to convey.

Many successful businesses, whether big or small, often create eye-catching and attention-grabbing business cards to persuade customers and clients to do business with them. More often than not, they get to reel in these consumers because of the strong impact their business cards have given towards their clients. Handing out business cards is a good way of promoting a company or service that we’d like to promote. That is why it is always a good idea to hand out fresh and creative business cards to potential customers who may want or need the company we represent offers.

However, it is not easy to create these great business cards by ourselves since crafting these cards require time and skill, two things that not all of us have. That is why there are online printers to help customers with their business card needs. Online printers offer business card production to customers who need creative business cards for promoting their services.

People who would want to have an online printer create exquisite business cards should also be aware that some online printers charge a lot more compared to the price of regular business cards. Customers that are also looking for an inexpensive online printing experience should not lose hope as there are still a few online printers that produce fantastic and cheap business cards, these great sites give the best value for money and ensures high quality services not only for their prints but in the level of customer satisfaction as well.



By: Earl Maghirang

]]> http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/the-effects-of-a-personalized-business-card-on-business/feed 0 Saving More on Business Card Expenses http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/saving-more-on-business-card-expenses http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/saving-more-on-business-card-expenses#comments Fri, 06 Nov 2009 19:49:21 +0000 admin http://opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/saving-more-on-business-card-expenses Business cards are essential tools in today’s business world. Without having business cards, companies run the risk of getting beaten by the competition. Here are several ways of making sure that we not only get quality business cards but also save on the costs of producing them.

1. Checking an online printer’s website can help us gauge if we can save money or not. Most, if not all, online printing sites give specific quotes for their prices. These applications can help in choosing which online printer to help in producing business cards.

2. By reading reviews from various sources with regards to an online printer’s service can also help us. These reviews provide tips not only in pointing out the good points for an online printer but also give tips in how consumers can save more from promos and discounts offered by online printing companies.

3. Getting cheap business cards are also easy if consumers take advantage of the various programs and promos that companies place on their websites. Some promos include major discounts as much as 50% off on printing highly customized business cards.

4. People can also save money for printing their business cards by trying to create their own personalized business cards. This will be the most practical way however it is recommended for people with free time. People on the go would hardly have the time to create their own business cards.

Of course, these are only a few ways of saving money for printing business cards. Customers should also be wary of cheap business cards that are inferior as some crafty online printers often produce poor quality business cards for their customers. It is better to look for an online printer that offers top quality prints at affordable prices.



By: Earl Maghirang

]]> http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/saving-more-on-business-card-expenses/feed 0 Different Types of Business Cards for Different Types of Business http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/different-types-of-business-cards-for-different-types-of-business http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/different-types-of-business-cards-for-different-types-of-business#comments Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:25:46 +0000 admin http://opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/different-types-of-business-cards-for-different-types-of-business Some people may not realize it but there are different kinds of business cards that are used for different kinds of purposes. Each type of business card can be can be suited for a particular kind of person or profession. Also, each can have a certain standard look or design that maximizes its potential. Knowing each type of business card can help you in your business card printing strategy. This determines the design of your custom business cards and ensures their full effect when you give them.

Below are several common types of business cards that business card printing companies produce for people. Try and determine which type matches you and your goals.

The trade business card

People from a particular trade or industry have their own on kind of business card. For example if you are a plastic manufacturer, your trade business card will usually be given to your suppliers, competitors, resellers and investors. These kinds of business cards embody the particular trade of their owner. Their design should be related or have symbolisms to the trade. If you are into plastics you may have a plastic business card. If you are a baker why not print full color business cards shaped like bread? Basically, trade business cards should give the image of a particular trade so that you can easily be remembered as a part of that industry.

Corporate business cards

Business cards in the corporate world are of cure a whole other type altogether. They differ from trade business cards since the focus of a corporate business card is the company and not the whole trade itself. Because of this, the logo of the company has a prominent place in the design of these business cards. Usually they have a serious and simple design perfect for the more formal minded corporate culture. Companies may even issue a uniform design for their employees to use especially if they will be representatives. Corporate business cards are usually given to important business contacts and potential employees.

Personal business cards

A lot of people have personal custom business cards. This is the most common type. Their design does not focus on a particular trade or company. The focus here is the profession and personality of the business card owner itself. Because of this personal business cards usually have the most beautiful, interesting and varying designs. When you do print your custom business cards you can give them to almost anyone including your family and friends.

Marketing business cards

A marketing business card is a type unto itself because it can change certain conventions of a typical business card. Besides selling “the person” that owns the business card, a marketing business card can advertise a certain product, service or event. For example, your marketing business card for your product will have your name, as well as the phrase “supplier of the best computer in the state, the PC4000.” Different marketing cards should have different gimmicks and designs like this.

Those are the most common business card types. Have you seen the right type of business card for you? Choose the right type for yourself and you will be making contacts, new relationships and business opportunities in no time.

For comments and inquiries about the article visit: Custom Business Cards, Business Card Printing



By: Janice Jenkins

]]> http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/different-types-of-business-cards-for-different-types-of-business/feed 0 How To Create A Business Card http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/how-to-create-a-business-card http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/how-to-create-a-business-card#comments Thu, 01 Oct 2009 02:54:44 +0000 admin http://opedletters.com/?p=6 A properly prepared business card is one of the business tools many people overlook. For a small investment usually less than $30 for 500 cards you can tell the world that you are and what services you can provide. Your business card is a silent salesperson, so what will it say about you?

When planning a card it’s important to consider your message. Your card will be what people reference or use to remember you. It needs to be professional, legible and contain the necessary information. Some exceptions would be a humorous card if you were a clown or a comedian and a juvenile card if you were involved with children’s services. In any case it would still need to cover the essential points in its creation.

Spend some advance thought to layout and how to capture all the necessary information in such a small space. Draw out a template and try different versions and placement of information. You can also use some of the online websites that have sample business cards templates readily available. (You will probably need to order from them to use it.)

Tip: Fax your card to yourself. This is a good way to see how legible you have made the important details.

In some cases a folded card might be acceptable. It is important to recognize that many people don’t like cards that are a different shapes and size (especially ones that won’t store conventionally in a rolodex or a business card organizer.)

Some questions to consider when preparing your business card
1) Who will receive your card? Hopefully everyone you meet. You should always be prepared to give out your cards. I am amazed at the number of people who attend business functions and come without their cards. Students are notorious for not having a business card. It is an essential part of job hunting.

Tip: When attending a function that the exchange of cards is expected, wear something with pockets. Keep you own cards in your right pocket and the cards of the people you meet in your left.

2) What will they do with the card once they receive it? Store it in a Rolodex, add it to the database, and put it in a stack with a rubber band around it? My personal favorite for services I use around the house, vet, pharmacy, cleaners, etc., is the refrigerator magnet business card. They are all readily accessible. They are a little more expensive, but those are the cards I use most.

3) Under what conditions will your card be used? In an emergency (if you need a plumber) you would want your card to jump out of the stack.

Exotic or unusual cards are clever but not exactly suited to the business environment. Exceptions being if you can identify on your card some service you perform like embossing, hot foil stamping or product you sell, specialty papers or if you happen to be an exotic dancer. Bright colors are not a good idea unless you are involved with color in your business paint, flowers, decorating, etc. Specialty effects such as vignettes and shadowing get lost in such a small space. Keep it simple and not distracting. I recently got a card on an opaque material and I simple could not read what was printed on it.

Many people now include their photos, this is especially touchy feely. But if you are involved in the photographic business like Eastman Kodak or are a photographer this is a great idea.

A couple of things to consider about photos:

• Some people judge services by the person’s appearance.

• There may be security reasons why you might not want your photo on your card.

• Photos can “date” you or your product.

• Photos can personalize you and make you more accessible.

It is perfectly acceptable to have multiple cards. You should consider having both a professional and personal business card. My husband, a retired Marine, has a somewhat risqué but funny business card he gives out to Marines he might meet. Another example would be if you were looking for a job you would want to differentiate your work, address and contact information from your home information. You may also have a sideline business that you would want identified separately.

Business card essentials:

On the front:

• Name, Title, Company name & logo, mailing address, phone and fax numbers, E mail address, website & cell phone number.

On the back:

• Who you are what you do, your mission statement, your vision, services you perform, skill sets you have, awards you have won, associations/memberships.

TIP: Make sure one side of your card is always in English. If you plan to travel or do business in a foreign country, it’s a good idea to invest in a translation of your essential details for the other side of the card. If you do a lot of international travel especially countries that have security risk it might be worth downplaying your title. Do NOT have a card that shows that you are someone of great importance.

General writing tips:

• Stay away from unusual fonts and different fonts on the same card;

• Make sure your card is legible and credible;

• Make sure the information is well organized and makes sense in the layout;

• Make sure your name is large enough that people can read without glasses;

Don’t rely on one card to do it all.

Plan your cards as carefully as you would a resume. Be proud of your card. It’s a reflection of you. Business cards are an inexpensive yet essential selling tool. Be prepared to give out your card in any circumstance and for heaven’s sake “Don’t Leave Home Without It.”

By: JoAnn Hines

]]> http://www.opedletters.com/personal-business-cards/how-to-create-a-business-card/feed 0