Put Your Photo on Your Business Card

When I spoke at HSMAI's national convention in Washington, DC, I invited audience members to give me their business cards afterward if they wanted to receive my free monthly e-mail newsletter, "Winning Words and Ways." Sixty-one people did that.

When I returned to my office and went through the cards, I tried to remember the people I had met so briefly. One person's card stood out from all the rest. Why? She had her photo on the card.

I recommend that you put your photo on your card, if company policy allows it. If company policy does not allow it, suggest a policy change.

I learned this good practice from real estate agents. Once when I was selling my house, a group of realtors came through and left their cards. The agents I identified with quickly and wanted to contact had included their photos on the cards. They became real and personable right away.

So if you have thought that putting your picture on your card was a sign of vanity, I invite you to re-evaluate your idea. No, you are simply helping people remember you--which is why you hand them your card anyway.

A final two tips. Make sure your photo is top quality, very clear with high resolution. Second, use an updated photo. If your photo is ten or more years old, your prospective client might wonder what else you are deceptive about!

For more information, please visit my Web site:
www.ChampionshipCommunication.com