What does your business card say about you?

Your business card is a critical networking and job search tool. It is your opportunity to portray a professional image and create a positive first impression. As an avid networker, I’ve accepted thousands of business cards, some impressive, some mediocre and some, not worth the card stock they were printed on! I am always excited when I receive a business card that gets my attention. Whether or not I have an interest in the business, it provides an excellent opportunity to engage in a positive and genuine conversation. Just like a resume, your business card has a limited time to make an impact. The first impression is within the few seconds it takes to exchange your card. A business card is your handshake which you leave behind. It’s a major component of your persona for building and securing a positive image and a professional brand. Too many cards are unoriginal, unexceptional and unremarkable in design and content. They do not inspire the perception of a qualified, creative, talented professional. Business cards are meant to be exciting, luring, informative and to provide a glimpse into the character of the person. An impressive and memorable business card is far more than a grouping of your contact information. It reflects your brand, your personality and details your business and personal attributes, skill sets and expertise. If you are utilizing it during a job search, your card has to make a statement emphasizing you as a highly competent, highly skilled and driven professional. Ensure that it demonstrates your qualities and strengths. In short, are you memorable and do you stand out from the others? Utilize colours effectively. Those with two or three colours used prudently, instantly create appeal and draw the reader to digest the information. Use a good quality card. What impression will you create if you do not invest in the minimal cost of a professionally printed business card? Home made business cards may be suitable for students but fall short on good impressions for a senior executive. A quality card stock with a good feel goes a long way in determining further communication and good content takes you to the next level! A professional business card has the potential to create a positive and long lasting first and last impression for you at your next networking event, career or job fair, professional association meeting or social gathering. NEVER leave home without it!

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Martin Buckland, President of Elite Resumes, is a leading resume writer, career and executive coach, and job search strategist with a global clientele. Martin utilizes his 20+ years of expertise to work interactively with senior level clients across the world. Martin holds numerous certifications in executive career management including: Certified Professional Resume Writer, Co-Pilot Executive Coach, Certified Job and Career Transition Coach, Certified Job Search Trainer, Certified Personal Branding Strategist, Certified Employment Interview Professional, Online Professional Network Strategist, Microblogging Career Strategist, Social Networking Career Strategist, and Certified Social Media Career Strategist. www.aneliteresume.com, email: martin@aneliteresume.com, call 905-825-0490 or toll free 866-773-7863

© Elite Resumes | May 2016