Your networking card is one of the most valuable networking tools you have or I would say is the most powerful single tool--dollar for dollar--you can invest in. It's compact, energy-efficient, low-cost, low-tech, and keeps working for you hours, weeks and even years after it leaves your hands!
Some of the things your networking card does are:
+ Tell people your name and your skill.
+ It can be reused, as it passes from person to person, giving the same message to each person who comes in contact with it.
+ Provide prospects with a way to contact you.
+ Expose your portfolio/resume (if you have posted online at www.newcomers-canada.com).
We do not want to bring copy of resume everywhere we go it's too bulky and looks not as a professional way of approach to your targeting contact.
The main function to get your name out to other people with whom the first person comes in contact with via referrals. With that in mind, let's take a look at the most effective ways to use your networking cards.
Below several tips to get your card works for you.
1. Make Your Cards Accessible in Every Situation
Never leave home without them! It's a great idea to keep a small box of your cards in your glove box, just in case you find yourself in a situation where you need more than you've carried in your pocket or purse. In addition to jacket pocket, you can tuck them away in briefcase, wallet and computer bag, just to make sure you never run out.
2. Seek Situations to Pass Your Card
There are many opportunities in which you can pass on your card to prospective contact and friends as well as referral sources you wish to develop. Some are obvious; others are not. Whenever you have a one-on-one meeting with someone new or someone you haven't seen for a while, give her/him your networking card. At any occasions and social events, be sure you have plenty of cards when you go in. These are good places to extend the reach of your network.
Example of online resume: http://www.newcomers-canada.com/resume.asp?uid=526f65013275750
Free printing card : http://www.vistaprint.com