Intro by Skip Cohen
I’m still amazed at the number of photographers who, when I ask for their card, apologize for not having any with them. I get that we live in an Internet world, but a business card is still a great placeholder in somebody’s memory.
If I relied on just my phone/computer, I’d never have the recall I do when somebody gives me their card. I’ll often make a note on the back, especially at a convention. When I get back to my room at the end of the day, I’ll make some notes about things I need to follow-up about, all based on the cards I have with me. Later I can enter the cards of people I want to keep in touch with, but until then, it’s their business card that keeps me focused.
So, with WPPI coming up along with so many other shows throughout the trade show season, don’t leave home without your business cards. I found this post way back in Sarah Petty’s blog archives – make sure it’s clear why you have a business card in the first place!
And, if you hate your card – pick up the phone and call Marathon. There should be a level of continuity in the design and feel of your business card, all printed material along with your website, blog and Internet presence!
By Sarah Petty
So what DO you do?
I stopped at a delicious bakery in MO on the way to Memphis today. What a yummy treat instead of the normal interstate offerings. In the corner, there was a large wedding cake display on the top of a glass case. Inside the case were other wedding products, photos of cakes, etc.
There were several brochures and business cards neatly displayed on the top of the table. Out of curiosity, I picked up a business card from one of the stacks. The company was called ‘Something Elegant.’
There was a photo of flowers. I was trying to figure out if this was a florist, a photographer, the pastry chef or the place to call for the items in the glass case. Why would it seem unimportant to put WHAT this company does on their business card?
Although I agree, sometimes small businesses try to make their business card more of an informative brochure, it does help to tell what you do. I have seen others who don’t put contact information either.
Sometimes it is so easy for the obvious things to slip by.
