Ever been in a networking situation where you handed someone your business card, hoping to get a phone call?
And the call never came?
I have. Ugh, it's not fun.
Well, today I'm going to share a little secret with you to change that.
The next time you give a potential referral source your card, do one simple, little thing...
Add a Handwritten Message
When you write something in your own handwriting, It stands out. You're much more likely to get a phone call or email because you've put in the effort to make it personal.
Of all the other business cards that someone might get in one night, yours will be the most meaningful.
What Types of Things Should You Write?
"Personal cell # is: ___________"
"Call me for referrals."
"Let's meet for coffee."
"Lunch is on me."
Or whatever else you want to say that will prompt a call.
The first time I did this (talk about beginner's luck!) was about 15 years ago. I was at an American Cancer Society fundraiser and the place was jam-packed. I bumped into a financial planner and we struck up a conversation.
I told him that I was an attorney but was also a marketing and copywriting expert -- he told me that he did lots of seminars to attract new clients, but wasn't satisfied with the attendance.
We exchanged cards and I wrote, "I have a secret to triple your business."
The next day he called... and we had lunch the day after.
To make a long story short, I ended up working on a postcard for him to mail new prospects. It took me less than an hour to complete.
Within three months, the attendance to his seminars had tripled (nearly quadrupled) and his revenues soared. Based on my retainer plus royalty arrangement, I had pocketed over $22,000 for about an hour's work.
Not bad.
All thanks to that one handwritten line on a business card.
Hope you remember this little tip next time you meet a new referral source.
