Networking 101 - Business Card Rules

Networking 101 - Business Card Rules

By Nikki Viljoen of N Viljoen Consulting (Pty) Ltd

Dr. Renate Volpe, in her nugget cards entitled “Networking Tips” says:

“Your business card should be professional, innovative and easy to read.”

Boy oh boy, I really wish more people would take note of this.  I don’t know whether it is because of the onset of middle (ok older than middle) age and my eyesight is deteriorating or if it is just that people are not concerned about the writing on the business cards, but I am seriously battling to read both telephone numbers or e-mail addresses and on occasion, even names.

I have gotten to the stage where I am beginning to seriously think about tossing out the cards where I cannot read the numbers and letters.  It’s got something to do with, not only the size of the numbers and letters, but the font and the colour too.  It’s either that or I will have to invest in a magnifying glass!

The irony of all of this, is that the actual card is usually beautiful to behold with bold, clear logo’s.  The name of the Company and what have you is also clear and concise, but when it comes to any of the details, often even the name of the person, the lettering is so small that it is almost impossible to read.

I’m pretty sure that if people only knew or understood how frustrating it is for people like me to try and read these cards, they would ensure that the writing and the numbers are clearer.  I know that every time I battle with a card, I take out one of mine – just to make sure that I can read the information on my own card without trying to grow an extension to my arm or alternatively trying to grow squint as I bring it as close to my eyes as is humanly possible.

Your business card tells me, not only what the name of the company is, but also who you are and it allows me to contact you – if I cannot read the card, then I cannot contact you and if I cannot contact you, then I cannot refer you!

So take a moment now if you will, take out your card, have a look at it – is the lettering bold and easy to read, if you are not sure – take it to someone who perhaps already wears glasses or is hitting the mid 60’s (sorry guys and gals it had to be said one way or another) and see if they can read it easily.  If they can’t chances are – neither can I, or anyone else for that matter.

For more information on Renate, please visit her website at http://www.drrenatevolpe.co.za 

Nikki is an Internal Auditor and Business Administration Specialist who can be contacted on 083 702 8849 or nikki@viljoenconsulting.co.za