Sunday, March 1, 2009

The value of business cards


I'm a believer in fast & effective communication in all its forms, hence why I consult on digital communication technologies. However, one thing I always carry with me (well, several of really)and hand out wherever possible... is my business card.

Yes, there's the virtual business card that people used to attach to their emails some while back, but that has relatively ceased now. So why is it that the busiess card works so well still?

6 comments:

Anonymous said...

Do business cards indeed work? How often have you actually used a card to find/select a supplier? I love giving them out, that part feels really good, but did anyone ever call you saying "hey, I just found your card and I decided to hire you"?

In any case, I think your blog should be mentioned on your card ;-)

And if you want a card that's useful besides communicating your credentials, how about these? http://www.reencoded.com/2008/05/20/42-awesome-business-card-designs-with-links-to-100s-more/

Hayden Sutherland said...

Boudewijn
I've actually just started to run out of my current set of business cards (hence my thoughts about them).
Even in this modern digital age, I find they are incredibly effective for various reasons:
1. Looking professional in front of prospective & existing clients
2. Helping people know who you are and remember you (its one thing to say "hello, I'm Hayden and I work for Ideal Interface", its another thing to give them something with it then written on & spelt correctly).
Anything that gives your that edge must be of some value...?

Anonymous said...

Paper business cards will not go away.

They are just too simple and quick. Not everyone adapts to new technology like this so fast. Handing out cards has gone on for a long time now, it will not be replaced that quickly.

Hayden Sutherland said...

Qbert
I agree with you, its one of those things that digital may never replace.
Hayden
BTW: thanks to Marc for this link http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/picturegalleries/picturesoftheday/4932208/Pictures-of-the-day-3-March-2009.html

Anonymous said...

Cards will never go away.

About 9 years ago, I worked with a start-up and one of the founders was a real gadget freak. After one meeting, he spent 10 minutes trying to beam his details from his Palm to a clients. I just gave the guy my card and sat around for 10 minutes waiting for the technology to work!

Simplicity is a wonderful thing :-)

Hayden Sutherland said...

Anonymous
Yes, I agree... sometimes the simplest solution is the most effective!

Do you still carry business cards with you? (Perhaps only when you're working?)

Hayden