If networking is the most effective marketing activity - and it is - then your business card is your networking ticket. It’s essential, yet disposable. Its purpose is to create a first impression, over and over, to be there at the right moment, not to be kept as an heirloom. Here are a few ways to use your business card most effectively:

Don’t leave home without it. Carry a few everywhere you go. Even if you’re walking the dog or going to the gym and you can’t imagine running into anyone who’ll want it, bring a few cards. Store a few in your locker at the gym.

Keep them in every pocket or handbag. Stash a few in every purse, briefcase and piece of luggage you own. That way, you won’t have to remember so often to replenish the one container where you keep them. Keep a stack in your car and near the doors of your home and office. Put them by your keys or wherever you’ll look before going out. Put a few in your wallet, especially for those unexpected marketing moments when you meet someone standing in line at the bank or post office. Get in the habit of asking yourself, “Do I have my business card on me?”

Bring more than you think you need. You can’t represent yourself if you don’t have enough cards to give to the contacts that you make, so don’t underestimate how many you’ll need.

Hand them to people when you shake hands. They’ll remember your name better if they see it in writing. Develop the reflex of handing over your card, and don’t be shy if they don’t automatically reciprocate. Go ahead and ask for their cards. It will help you remember their names, an invaluable marketing skill in itself. Offer one to everyone you are introduced to or with whom you start a conversation. Get in the habit of saying, “Let me give you my card.”

Give them to people every time you meet them, not just the first time. This will avoid any embarrassment in case they forget your name. It doesn’t matter if they keep the card; it will have already served its purpose.

Include one in everything you send out, including introductory letters, invoices, FYIs and articles tear        sheets.

Ask for two cards from the people you meet. Tell them you want one for yourself and one you can pass along to anyone you come into contact with who might need their services. This sets you up perfectly to give two cards for the same purpose. It couldn’t hurt.

Make notes on cards when you get them from people you meet. Put the date and event on each card, along with a note that will help you remember the person. Do it while the person is standing there. This helps to create trust.

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