Business Cards in the Winter Wonderland

It is currently 33 degrees and snowing in Charlotte. On Wednesday, the city sent out an official state of emergency. So while posting in a winter wonderland, I wanted to share the importance of business cards. But first here are a few pictures from yesterday:

Back to business - business cards are simple, easy, and necessary. Professional networking is important. Whether you have a job now and you're looking for something different or you're searching for your first job... you need business cards. Personal branding is key to success.

Before creating business cards, you should create a LinkedIn page. LinkedIn is a professional networking website for people in professional occupations. It is mainly used for professional networking. LinkedIn allows you to share your education, work experience, and skills. Resumes can also be attached to LinkedIn accounts.

After creating and perfecting your LinkedIn page, choose where to design and order business cards. Vista Print offers 250 business cards for $10. Zazzle is where I ordered my Lilly Pulitzer first impression themed business cards. Zazzle typically offers 15% off and 100% satisfaction guaranteed. My Zazzle business cards arrived in the mail a couple days after ordering them, which is great if you need them quickly! Below are some monogrammed examples of business cards I liked.

My other favorite place to order business cards is Tiny Prints. They offer unique business cards, everything from folded cards, monogrammed cards, photo cards and simple cards. There are also plenty of other places to order business cards online.

You should include in your business cards:

1. Your full name
2. Your professional title or what you're studying
3. Your full address
4. A phone number where you can be reached at all times
5. Your e-mail address
6. Link to your website
7. Link to your LinkedIn account
8. If your social networks are relevant and professional, also include them

Most importantly, carry your business cards with you. You never know when you're going to meet your future boss or meet someone who can link you to your dream job. Also, dress to impress. Approach all people you meet as if they are your future employer. Be professional and don't post things on your social networks you wouldn't want your boss to see or read. Network. Network. Network.