Do You Really Mean Business?
A professional business card is a must
Most everyone concedes the importance of networking as a critical component of most all job searches. We’re no different.
One of the staples of an effective networking effort is having an effective business card. Is there anything more embarrassing than going to a networking event and having to admit that you don’t have any business cards? But you can’t use the card from your previous position.
A 21st Century dilemma
Of course as with every other element of the 21st Century job search, your father’s business card won’t necessarily cut it today. So what does make it nowadays? How can you present yourself as a viable, professional candidate?
One thing that hasn’t changed is making your job-search business card clean and simple – starting with your name… and any other credential that you may have – degree, certification, etc. Follow that up with “what you do.” Not your last job title, but what it is that you do – presumably the same thing that you would do for future employer. (i.e. Business-to-Business Sales Professional)
Now that I know who you are, how can I contact you? First, we don’t need three different phone numbers. The phone number where I’m most likely to reach you would be best. In most cases, today that means your cell phone number – a number that includes your area code – an area code that is not shown in parentheses. (i.e. 212.555.1212)
Staying within the natural progression of the age, your email address should follow. Here you must keep in mind that you’re looking for a job, so keep it professional. No “greatestdad@…” or no “pinkslippers@…” Open a new, distinct, professional-sounding gmail account if you must. In today’s business world, gmail addresses carry no negative connotations. Gmail addresses are 100 percent free and take only minutes to establish. There is no reason not to.
You do not need to include a photo. You’re not selling real estate or insurance. Putting your photo on a card means first, that you have a current, professional photo of yourself; and second, that you’re willing to spend the additional money (and it’s not an insignificant amount.) The same holds true for graphic illustrations.
Speaking of spending money, you’re much better off spending a few extra dollars to have your cards printed professionally. There are inexpensive online printing venues where you can get 250 cards for roughly $10. A good investment.
One thing you definitely don’t want to have is business cards with perforated edges. Nothing says cheap and unprofessional more than perforated business cards.
If you want to land a professional position, be consistent. Keep it professional.
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