Netpreneur

Although you might be an internet entrepreneur who lives much of his/her life online, it doesn't mean that you won't ever interact with people in the 'real world'.  When you do, it's important that you have a business card to hand over.

Business cards are relatively inexpensive and you won't need thousands of them - in fact, I have about 7-8 boxes of old business cards from previous jobs in a storage box at home that I never got round to giving out...I'm sure you do too.

It's important that your card is well designed, is in keeping with the online nature of your business (ie. not staid and boring, as many business cards are), and mirrors the graphical elements that make up your website.  Remember that branding needs to be uniform throughout your collateral - business cards, website, email signatures, advertisements, flyers, etc.  Don't opt for a templated business card - get one custom designed (try elance for inexpensive designers).

The card should contain all of the necessary contact details and your website URL.  If it's appropriate to your business, consider including your Instant Messaging ID (eg. Skype, ICQ or MSN Messenger), as well as the standard telephone, fax, email and postal details.

When receiving business cards from others, always make notes about the individual on the back of the card, so that you don't forget who they are - particularly if you are attending a networking event and you are meeting lots of different people.  If appropriate, send a follow up email several days after meeting the person.  This can often be a great source of business leads.  Store all contact details in Microsoft Outlook or an online Customer Relationship Management (CRM) tool.

ACTION LIST

- Get business cards

- Store business cards where you can access them - briefcase, wallet, sports bag

- Follow up on leads when others give you their business card

- Store contact details in an electronic system - MS Outlook or similar