Networking Tip: No number on your business cards.

In the book "Networking Like a Pro" by Ivan Misner, (which I highly recommend) it brings up the idea of not including your phone number on your business card.  But how should you give them your phone number?  Write it on the card in front of them.

Why?
Think about the last time someone gave you their card.  Unless there was something super special about the occasion, it typically goes into an imaginary oubliette in your pocket.  I.e. it is pocketed and forgotten.  How does writing the number in front of the person help?  By conveying the message that it really is OK to call.  It personalizes the card in a way to make it more memorable, more connected.

NOTE: It is not the fact that it is written, but the fact it was personalized for them.  I.e. if you just hand write your phone number on all your cards beforehand, it makes it look like you just forgot to add it to the card.  Which appears unprofessional.  You need to do it in front of them, and then it conveys you are providing this additional way to be reached.

Don't Stop There!
Never take a line of advice without considering the psychology behind it.  This isn't about the card, its about the connection.  You are taking a rather mundane transaction and personalizing it to make it more connected.  How else could you accomplish the same thing?

An idea would be to wear something that stands out to your next event.  I'm not talking about wearing a clown suit to your next business convention, but a hook.  Some accessory to get them to ask about it and start a conversation on, especially if it relates to how you can be of service.  Do you sell fishing tackle?  Wear a hat with a fish hook in it.  Sell racing gear?  Have a relatively large gear prominently displayed on your key chain.  Make comics, wear a watch with your favorite character on it, especially if it blinks every now and then.

Another would be match making.  Remember the people you met, how they can help others and what they might need, even if its not for you.  After the meetups, look through your list of people you've met.  Send an email including both parties.  Saying that how you all met, and pointing out the connection.  I.e. such and such place has been having trouble with their email provider, but you know a great IT Technician.  Email them both, and drop the conversation starter on how they can help each other out.  Even though its not directly helping you, they will remember the assistance.  (Please note, if it is an issue like failing email, make sure the technician you are going to suggest is not the source for the broken email) :)

Its up to you and your niche market to figure out what else you can do.  These are just some ideas.  But get networking and make valuable connections today.