A client asked me the other day whether getting business cards is still worth it. Do people still hand them out? And if they do, do they just get thrown away?

My answer to this question is, it depends….

It depends on you, it depends on your business and it depends on your own networking style.

On the weekends, I like to help my mum out at the Toowoomba Farmers Markets. One of my jobs is serving customers through the register. One thing I love to do is give genuine compliments when I see something that makes me smile. Now this could be on hair, jewelry, clothing. I always get excited when the person says they make / sell / do it as a business.

Whether you think it’s ‘old fashioned’ or not, I always ask if they have a business card so that I can look them up later. Nine times out of ten, they will happily pull one out, or if they don’t have one, I ask them to bring one for me next time.

Once I’ve finished up work, I’ll go and have a stalk of their socials, so that I can connect with them.

I always notice if their cards match the branding of their socials or website because it makes them stick in my head a little more. After that, so I don’t clutter my space, I will toss the card, but in this instance, it has served its purpose – we have connected.

Now not because I am not genuine about the interaction, but because I’m human, if they don’t give me a card, I will not look them up – usually because I have a thousand things rushing though my head and I have forgotten their business name, or just straight up forgotten.

This is just one example of business card exchange, but it’s one I do regularly. It’s a form of memorability, and they are easy to use.

If your thinking of getting away from a physical business card, there is the option of getting a digital business cards, but do be mindful this has it’s limitations. Not everyone may have the tech on hand to exchange details, and their may be a moment of disconnect if any difficulties arise exchanging those details.

So to in short answer your question, business cards are still worth getting because:

• They make you memorable
• The card design can compliment your business branding
• They are easy to use
• Physical cards are a great tool for marketing and promotion.

If you think business cards are right for you, let me help you get started with some customised cards, designed to compliment your brand. Get in touch 🙂