Printed business cards 'can expand people's networks'

Interviewees should take printed business cards with them when meeting their potential employer, it has been suggested.

Taking along a stack of printed business cards is an important aspect of bring prepared for a job interview.

That is the view of David Jensen, a writer and speaker on career issues, who said in an article for Science magazine the items are a useful way of expanding one's network.

He advised individuals to offer their business cards after they have shaken hands with anyone they meet on the day, as this is the next step in a professional introduction and ensures they will receive a card in return.

"Now there's one more person you know in the industry. Your network grows," Mr Jensen commented.

Upon returning home, interviewees ought to write notes to everyone they received a card from, thanking them for their time and asking for their LinkedIn details, he added.

The expert's remarks follow those made by John Titlow in a piece for ReadWrite earlier this month, who noted business cards continue to be popular and are unlikely to be replaced by digital alternatives any time soon.