When I attend blogging conferences, I carry a stack of business cards to hand out to potential clients. Not only do I want share my contact information, but I also want to leave a memorable impression on everyone I meet.
I love to see the smile on people’s faces when they read my card.
“Disco dancer?” They always ask.
“Yes,” I reply. “It’s one of the many services I offer.” I then ask them read the back of the card.
After seeing this image, they usually burst into fits of laughter and show the card to someone standing nearby. This “social proof” allows me to meet someone new and give them a business card too.
“Is that you?” They ask.
I explain that is a Photoshopped image of my head on John Travolta’s body. Next I ask them to scan the QR code. They usually pull out their phone and comply. Another smile comes across their faces as the disco music starts to play on their phone.
After this card exchange, we usually spend several minutes getting to know each other and making plans to follow-up later. This business card has opened up several business opportunities for me because I was willing to do something to stand out.
My business cards let my customers know that I’m serious about writing and speaking on fatherhood, but I also have a sense of humor and don’t take myself too seriously.
I urge all entrepreneurs to be creative with your branding. What makes you special? Why should people use your services? How can you delight your customers in ways that no one else can? Consider these questions when designing your branding messages. If you don’t make your brand stand out, potential customers may overlook you and you’ll miss opportunities because you failed to make a memorable impression.
