Why you should still have a business card when you're unemployed...

…& never go anywhere without it!

I’ve been asked many times: “I’m unemployed.  Should I still have a business card?”  My answer is always emphatically “Yes.”  A business card is, if nothing else, a big reminder on a tiny card.  People tend to save business cards which means that they will keep being reminded of you. 

The objective is to provide people with your information, get their attention and keep them interested.  Perhaps you are an entry-level employee or recent graduate and don’t yet have a “job title”.  I suggest putting your industry on the card.  For instance: “Automotive Repairs.”  If you have a specialized license or certification, include that (“Licensed Social Worker”) even if you haven’t had a job in the area yet.  All business cards should certainly have:

• Name
• Email Address
• Phone number

Additions that could be valuable:

• Website URL (if pertaining to work-related concepts i.e., a portfolio, examples of writing clips, listing of clients, blog)
• Job Title, if applicable
• Address, if applicable

“Where can I get my business cards?”  There are several ways you can get business cards.  For a do-it-yourself version, buy business card paper from an office supply store, print them right at your printer and pop the perforated cards from the page.  If you’re willing to spend a bit more money, want a glossy finish or special treatments, you can have them done professionally at a store like Staples or order them online at a company like VistaPrint.

“Who should I be giving my card to?”  Anyone you can!  If someone says something like this:  “My brother is in that industry.  He talks about it all the time.  I should put the two of you in touch!”—Perfect opportunity to give your card!  “You’re a contractor? I’ve been looking to have a deck built in my backyard.”  Hand them your card for a consultation.  Meet someone at a company you’re interested in working for?  Ask if they are aware of whether or not there are any job opening and give them your card.   Make sure you have a stack of cards on you when you go to any type of networking event, career fair, conference or interview.

You’ll be surprised at the number of opportunities you’ll have to promote yourself.  When you do hand your card to someone, ask for his or her card in return and send them a thank you note for their time and consideration.  (If you got their business card but didn’t get to give yours, consider including it with your thank you!).  We’ll cover thank you cards next week, so keep reading! 

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