It's All in the Cards

1) Get in,
2) Get my stuff, and
3) Get out.

Standing on long store lines isn't on my favorites' list, so I shop early and quickly to make best use of my day.

One morning, I broke my own rule, and at the same time made a profit. Aside from my on-the-spot presentation, one item helped to secure an unexpected sale -- my business card.

A husband and wife were looking at the club's gift baskets, trying to decide which of two was the better choice. Both baskets contained items that the recipient liked, while other products within each basket weren't preferred. I stood close, inspecting a different basket. The wife glanced at me, and I took that opportunity to share my opinion. We exchanged our thoughts, and I informed her about my gift basket business. I added that if she had a couple of days to spare before giving the gift, I could create a custom gift basket that the recipient would cherish.

The couple was interested, so I took the next step. I retrieved a business card holder from my pocketbook and presented a crisp, clean card. They were impressed as I told them about other individuals and businesses that have purchased my baskets. This information was not to brag, but to inform them about my expertise and to make a lasting impression while giving my business card. I offered to call them, and the wife gave me their phone number. The next day, I had a sale.

Do you carry your business cards when shopping, vacationing, or running errands? Your next sale may be right around the corner -- at the beauty salon, the launderette, or while standing on line at a bank. Business won't come looking for you, and that's why carrying your business cards is a must.

Purchase several card holders to place inside your favorite purses and bags. Business card holders keep your cards clean and flat. This small investment is better than the alternative -- distributing business cards that are dingy and stained. That's not the impression you want to give a potential customer.

Inspect your business cards. Do you provide details that a prospect should know about your gift baskets? Is the contact information up to date? Are your Web site and Email addresses listed? Avoid passing out cards with cross outs and other changes made in pen. Again, that's not the type of impression you should leave with clients and prospects. Business cards are inexpensive. When your information changes, order new cards.

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