Printed business cards 'are a means of connecting with others'

Individuals looking to expand their network should use printed business cards, it has been suggested.

Exchanging printed business cards is a valuable way to connect with new contacts, it has been claimed.

The Calgary Herald suggested the items are an important aspect of events such as recruitment fairs.

It advised those attending such an occasion to have plenty of cards printed in advance and to ensure they contain their name, profession, telephone number, email address and LinkedIn profile.

People should arrive at networking events with the aim of expanding their circle of contacts, it stated.

To this end, they should "circulate and connect with others" by introducing themselves, giving a firm handshake and sharing business cards, while remembering to maintain eye contact at all times.

If attending a recruitment fair, individuals must also research the companies that will be present beforehand and aim to obtain a business cards from every firm they speak to.

Furthermore, according to founder of the Ruby Media Group Kristen Ruby writing on Aol Small Business, cards ought to be followed up within two days of being received.