03 Jan Networking at Trade Shows: The Power of Printed Business Cards
Networking is one of the main reasons people attend trade shows. They want to meet potential clients and forge meaningful connections with other professionals in their industry. But to get your new connections to follow up with you after the show, you need to give them a way to contact you. That’s why custom-designed, professionally printed business cards are so important at a trade show.
Let’s go over some more tips and explanations so you can network like a pro at the next industry event!
How to Make Connections with Purpose and Poise
In order to build your network organically you’ll want to take an open-ended approach when striking up conversations. For example, don’t ask questions that can be answered with a yes or no—or worse, a shrug—ask questions that encourage discussion. And then, after making an initial connection, close the chat with a plan to talk later, and offer a business card to stay in touch.
Here are a few tips to help you get those conversations started:
- Be genuine. You’ve heard it before, but this networking advice is a classic for a reason. People can tell when you really want to talk with them, or if you’re doing it for self-serving purposes. You don’t want to make others uncomfortable by coming on too strong. However, if your approach is too mild and not open-ended, it won’t inspire any conversation.
- Be curious. Ask questions that will make them think, share, and perhaps even ask you a follow-up question. For example, “What software tools are most critical to your success in automotive marketing?” or, “What industry trends do you see on the horizon for next year?”
- Contribute value. Share your own insights. Offer practical solutions if you’re chatting about a challenge. For example, “At my company we’ve automated a way to complete that process and it’s been reducing waste and improving efficiency. I’d be happy to share more details with you over lunch.”
- Offer free advice. Give specific, actionable advice to demonstrate your expertise. Make sure the takeaway is something the other person needs or wants. For example, “I’ve been using digital feedback loops to improve my data collection process. Are you interested in learning more about how I did it?”
Do You Really Need Business Cards at a Trade Show?
Yes, business cards are still quite a powerful networking tool. Having a visible, physical reminder makes those new connections more likely to get in touch with you again. And if you happen to set a meeting with someone, you can write the date, time, and location on the back.
Printed business cards offer a tangible, more personal way to share your contact information. They set you apart from other vendors with generic business cards by representing your personality. And when they’re well designed, they’ll also make a memorable impression and help you build a stronger rapport.
What Are the Best Business Cards for a Trade Show?
When someone hands you a business card, you can’t help but judge them on it immediately. How is the design? How is the paper quality? Is it flimsy or printed on quality cardstock? Has it been mass-produced from a template or is it custom-designed to show off personality and expertise? Is it embossed? Is it average size or a unique shape like a square? Details and design matter, so be meticulous with your choices.
Handing someone a well-designed, physical card feels much more personal. It can also contain a QR code linking to your digital presence (website, LinkedIn profile, online resume). This is a great way to incorporate the use of both print and digital. Also, keep in mind that you don’t have to hand business cards to everyone you meet—you can save them for those you make a true connection with.
Get Custom-Printed Business Cards in Tempe, Arizona
Business cards are definitely still important at a trade show. Without them, you could miss out on potential, long-lasting connections. They help you build a solid reputation by giving them a way to follow up, and a stand-out business card will also make your encounter more memorable. At Mousegraphics, we print professional, custom business cards as well as a wide range of other trade show materials.
Give us a call to get a quote for custom business cards today.
Featured Image by Benedikt Geyer from Pixabay on 11.26.2024 | Used under creative commons license