Last week’s posting discussing name tags motivated many comments,
emails, and phone calls. I never realized that a simple subject would result in
so much feedback. Therefore, I thought that I would continue the discussion
this week, adding some of the ideas that I received after last week’s posting.
While wearing name tags at every meeting that you attend is
very important to your marketing, wearing one in the wrong place may not be
useful. Name tags should be worn on the upper right hand chest so that the
wearer will shake hands with the hand from that same side. This will allow the
name tag to be close to the other person and easy to read. The easier the name
tag is to read, the more impact it makes.
Last week I said that the only information you needed on a
name tag was the name of your business (if you have one) and your name. Some
people believe that only your name should appear, but I disagree. The name of
your business will provoke questions and comments, usually requests for more
information about your business that leads to better networking. I value these
questions and where they lead.
What about your contact phone number and email address? That
should be on your business or contact card. The person with whom you exchange business
cards will have that information without having to copy it from your name tag.
Meeting attendees should not have to write down anything more than their notes.
Leave your name tag for attracting the attention of others and their comments.
Should you place your business logo on your name tag? If it
will aid in marketing your business, it may actually attract inquiries.
Remember that the idea is to have a name tag that is easy to read, and nothing
should distract from that intent. Do not clutter up the tag, and you must have
a font large enough to be read easily.
Should you spend a lot on money on a name tag? If it will
market you and your business better, a special tag may be great, but someone
starting out can print a name tag from their computer or have one done by a vendor.
Remember to use a substantial weight paper and a plastic holder for what you
have printed. Replace the tag, and holder, whenever necessary so that it is not
dirty or worn.
Of course, you must make an effort to have a name tag with
you to wear. Make it a habit to have one available wherever you may be. You
should never forget your business cards (but some people do all the time), and
you should never forget your name tag. You don’t have to wear it as you walk
down the street, but you should carry one with you in your pocket, backpack,
briefcase, purse, as you go to a meeting.
Name tags can make you new friends and allow former
acquaintances to recognize you at meetings. Make it easy for your clients to do
business with you, wearing a name tag whenever you attend a meeting, both
outside and inside your business. It is a mark of professionalism, your passion
for your business, and your personal connection with your clients.
Please leave me your comments, or email me at Jim@SOC4Now.com, or call me at 360-314-8691. I’ll be
glad to receive your opinions either in agreement or disagreement. Let’s
connect at the next business meeting where we can see each other’s name tags.
I totally agree with what you said about name tags. Just your name and company name, logo if there is room. You want the badge to be read in a glance. I keep a stash of business cards and a printed name tag in my car's glove box at all times; that way I don't have to remember to grab them on my out of the office.
ReplyDeleteLarry Margolis
Great information, Jim! One comment about including your company name on your name tag -- yes, it may generate conversation, but it may also cause people to skip right over talking with you. Often times people will glance at a name tag, see the occupation, think "I have no interest in that business" or that they do not need to meet another ______, so they make no effort to introduce themselves.
ReplyDeletePersonally, I do not include information about my business on my name tag, and am often asked "So, what do you do? / Who do you work for?" It provides people with a "safe" conversation starter, and as you say, provokes additional questions and comments.
Appreciation marketing is communicating appreciation for your customers and showing them how much you care. This strategy helps build and solidify relationships you have with clients and prospects, so when they have a buying decision to make, they think of you because of that solid relationship you have built with them. This is also an effective marketing strategy like telemarketing and internet marketing in generating revenue for clients.
ReplyDelete