What you say during the first few seconds of any encounter is so important that I will devote over half of this course to creating those vital words and delivering them effectively. (We discuss the importance of your image, a combination of your appearance and behavior, in those first few seconds in our course, “What You Say Before You Speak”.)
You need to craft those words carefully so they inform and intrigue as well as inspire people to want to talk further with you. These words also serve as the basis for your top-of-the-mind positioning statement, a must for every businessperson.
Many refer to the opening words as the “elevator pitch.” Loosely interpreted, this is your 60 second summary of what you do … and far too long to give in its entirety when starting a conversation. What I have created is your Verbal Business Card, the front-end of that elevator pitch … a 10-15 second benefit-laden sentence or two that helps you get new and ongoing encounters off on the right foot.
You also need to pay heed to your Printed Business Card and how to use it. Some of you have the added challenge to create and design it, especially when you are self-employed. Your card is a vital part of the networking process because it is often the first printed impression anyone has of your business. This is true, no matter the size of the company. Further, your card leaves an ongoing impression as long as it is in someone’s possession.
In this course, you will learn:
- How to create your generic Verbal Business Card
- What to include, probably not include, and definitely exclude
- Why you need several versions
- How and why to turn your features into benefits
- What question you want your VBS to invoke
- How to create your top-of-the-mind positioning statement
- How to create your Printed Business Card (PBC)
- How to effectively use the back side as well
- Why business cards are your ubiquitous networking tool
- Why and how to practice business card etiquette