Perfecting the business card exchange can be vital to making a positive first impression. While some networking situations can be crowded and chaotic, it is important to use proper etiquette no matter what the setting may be. In addition, there are other tools available for professionals that can help ease the stress of breaking the ice during all business card exchanges.

We encourage you to consider the 4 tips outlined below to perfect your next card exchange!

1. Be Selective

While it may be tempting to give your business card to as many people as possible, this is certainly not a recommended way to network. Those who peddle their business information to each and every person like they’re working an assembly line may think they’re being helpful, but in reality they’re simply being annoying.

Contact information should be shared after a legitimate conversation takes place. Once you have “qualified” the individual you’re speaking with as a valuable resource & there is a general feeling that the thoughts are mutual, this is when business cards should be exchanged. After all, people are not going to remember anything about you if a genuine conversation does not take place.

2. Always Be Prepared For A Business Card Exchange

There is nothing more embarrassing than having to admit to a valuable business lead that you can’t find your business cards. Every day, professionals around the world find themselves in this situation because they are not prepared for a business conversation at all times.

Of course, one solution to this problem would be to set constant reminders to have printed business cards on you at all times. This would involve carrying around cards in a case & constantly staying on top of reordering.

Keeping printed cards stocked up and on-hand can become a headache for some. One solution that is rapidly gaining traction among professionals is the concept of digitizing business card exchanges. This makes a ton of sense, as virtually everyone has their smartphone handy, at all times of the day. Digital business cards can ensure that you are always prepared, even when unexpected situations arise.

3. Keep Business Card Information Up To Date

Have you ever received a business card from someone who has pointed out that some of the information on the card is incorrect or outdated? Failing to keep business & contact info up-to-date can kill your credibility. When things change, be sure to get your cards updated immediately. Many times, this means throwing away a ton of cards & investing in a new batch, but it is your reputation that is on the line. This is an example of another scenario where going digital makes sense.

A benefit of digital business cards is their unique ability to update information on the fly. If you have made the switch to the digital side, you can update/change all of your info with a simple tap of the screen. In addition to your contact details being correct for future exchanges, all edits become active in real time & will show up immediately in your existing contacts’ digital card libraries. This unique functionality is available with the L-Card Pro digital business card application, which offers a free 30 day trial.

4. Show Tact

Don’t be over-aggressive & always show tact. There’s nothing worse than pushy salespeople at networking events. The way you communicate with potential leads should focus on solving THEIR problems. Emphasize active listening to determine whether or not it makes sense to exchange information.

Have tips you would like to share? We encourage you to do so in the comment section below!