The Business of Business Cards

Tadaaa~~!! Here they are, my brand new stack of business cards! The days of embarrassment by presenting my DIY printed ones (due to exceeded blog budget) are now finally behind me. And all of that thanks to Cointreau, who even threw in a lovely card holder with key chain from Ordning & Reda at the Forever 21 party. Very ‘Sex and the City’ -ish.

Below I’ve listed some thoughts + tips on why every self-respected blogger should have business cards

I’ve stated before that networking is a very important aspect of blogging. A lot of people seem to forget about off-line networking though. Just like when you would leave a comment accompanied by a link to your blog, it’s important to leave something behind when  you meet a person in the ‘real world’ as well.  Keep in mind that most people are visually oriented and that at the end of the evening that person might not remember everyone he/she has spoken to. Here’s where the business card shows its purpose.

Business cards are part of your personal branding. They represent both you and your blog. The fact of having a business card alone can give a professional impression. It says you’re not here to fool around, you want to be taken seriously in this ‘business’. Therefore, make sure your card looks both professional and totally YOU. Use your logo or title font, so it’s easy to connect the cards with your blog and vice versa. Make sure it stands out from the rest. In my case these are standard business cards, so the only thing that I can count on to differ myself from the other bloggers who received them is the my logo on the back. I also prefer to put any info on regarding the social media platforms you are on, for example your Twitter name.

Once you have your own personal business cards, always, and I really mean ALWAYS carry them with you. Put some in your cardholder to take with you to events, but also some in every purse and in your wallet. You never know who you might meet that might be relevant for your blog. Journalists, pr-agents, brand representatives, bloggers, family, friends or even shop personnel when you’re on a shopping spree. These are all people that can help your blog, whether you want to build a brand-blogging relationship or expand your readership. Whenever a relevant topic comes up, tadaaa~~ pull out that business card and spread the word. I believe in the fact that everytime someone asks for your business card and you have to say “I don’t have any” or “I left them at home” is a missed opportunity. This doesn’t mean you have to push your business cards in everyone’s hands, wether that person asks for it or not. This is personal info your giving out, so choose wisely who you’re giving it to. Especially when your address (not advised) or personal cellphone number is on it. You never know where it might wind up.

Do you have business cards or thinking about getting some? All thoughts, comments, other tips,.. are welcome in the comments!

A big thanks to Oona and Cointreau!
Cheers!

www.cointreau.com