Recent college grads can benefit from having a business card, because although many j0b search interactions now are done online, there’s still a lot of face-to-face networking that takes place when you’re looking for a job. Whether it’s in a meeting arranged to gather information about a career area or spur-of-the-moment conversations while waiting in line somewhere, it can be awkward when the conversation ends, and the other person offers their business card. You want to give them with your contact information, too — ideally something more than a random piece of paper.
How you present yourself during networking activities speaks volumes, and not having a card to exchange can leave a potential contact with the impression you are not ready to take your job search seriously. Exchanging business cards is as professional as it is practical.
A recent college graduate’s card might contain information such information as a name and contact information (address and phone number) an e-mail address or Web site url, Linkedin address and college major or areas of focus. Some cards include the recent grad’s degree and graduation year.
Consider using key skills where a job title would normally appear. This could help develop your brand.
Here are some questions to ponder when developing your card:
How do I want people to contact me?
What impression am I leaving with them?
What makes me different from my classmates?
What things do I find enjoyable that could benefit a possible employer?
Although cards can distinguish one job candidate from the other, avoid getting too creative. Always keep your goal in mind — you want to leave a professional image at this point, not necessarily showcase your artistic side.
Having business cards to hand out is an important part of your job search. Don’t leave home without them.
