The Do's and Don'ts of Digital Business Cards
As with any new technology, there is a right way and a wrong way to proceed with its use. Some of the guidelines are set by the product’s industry or by government regulations, whereas others are just a matter of etiquette, protocol or common courtesy. The same holds true for the proper use of digital business cards – they’re relatively new to the marketplace and there is a right way and a wrong way to use them. Below is information about the do’s and don’ts of digital business cards.
The Do's
Do Use Business Etiquette When Using Your Digital Business Cards: As with physical business cards, it's important to maintain proper etiquette when using digital business cards as well. Only send your digital business cards to those who will likely have use for it.
Do Perform Research Ahead of Time: Prior to distributing your digital business cards, it only makes sense to consider those who are likely candidates to do business with. That means that you must perform adequate research beforehand. That way you will not spend your efforts with those that have little or no interest in the use of your products or services.
Do Prepare a Pitch: When sending out digital business cards, it's great to add a note or a pitch along with your card before sending it to potential clients. That way it will allow them to better connect with you and it will increase user engagement.
Do You Show an Interest in Others: Before offering people your business card, showing an interest in them and what they do first, followed by requesting their business card typically causes many people to soon follow suit. They will then likely want information about you and will request your business card.
Do Allow Others to See How Your Business Can Solve Their Problems: Many forms of advertisements and promotional tactics bombard so many people. By allowing potential clients to see how your product or service can solve their problems, you can make your card stand out from the rest and make potential customers more receptive to receiving your business card.
The Don’ts
Don't Abuse the Use of Your Digital Business Card: Avoid abusing or overdoing it with your business card with respect to forwarding it to those who are not interested. This makes them feel inundated or as if they are receiving spam.
Don't Over Complicate Your Card: With all of the software and technology available it's easy to go overboard with your business cards. However, overdoing it can actually add confusion and make people feel more reluctant about contacting you. Especially if there are other options available for them to choose from.
Do not add Multiple Specialties on One Card: Since digital business cards are basically free to create, create one card for each area of specialty unless they are related (such as accounting and taxes) otherwise you may not be taken seriously seen as an expert in your field.