So, what's your number anyway?
Somewhere in the last months of school, (buried in some business class you'd rather sleep through because upcoming board exams seem more important) you learn about a very small, yet crucial piece of cardstock...the business card.
Now, the purpose of this post is not about what to or to not put on your business card. It's merely to point out an oversight I've come across on numerous occasions, and twice this past weekend!
If you are handing our your business card, it's most likely in attempt to provide your contact information, right?
At a recent seminar I ran into two former classmates who have settled far from where I practice. Because I'm all about networking, I like to keep a well-stocked Rolodex of people, specifically chiropractors, that I'd feel comfortable referring too.
Not one, but both of these doctors handed me a card without an email address or telephone area code!
Now how in the world am I (more importantly a patient) supposed to contact them? Yes, I can Google the area code, but then what is the point of having his/her card?
My message is short and sweet...put all necessary information of that little piece of cardstock!
Before you place an order, ask yourself "can I be reached solely on what's available here? " I know it seems like such a simple concept, but evidently, it's worth mentioning.
Add this blog to 
I guess we really need to put ourselves in the shoes of whoever is receiving this information. You are right. I've faced the frustration of receiving a card and not having the full information.....
Posted by: MJW726 | October 31, 2007 at 09:37 PM
Also, make sure your picture is on your card. I read an interesting marketing study done a few years ago that suggested people have a harder time throwing out cards that have personal pictures on them.
Something to think about.
Posted by: Braxton Pulley | October 31, 2007 at 11:26 PM
I have had good results with having the back of my card work as the appointment card. This way, if they have my card when they call for an appointment, they can put the information on the back. Also, I am handing out a card to all of my patients when they make an appointment. Just another option. I have seen others where the back of the card said, " On my next appointment I want to ask the doctor.....".
As for the picture.........it may be a good marketing technique but does it tarnish the professionalism of the card and the doctor? In my experience, the only cards I see with pictures are the hard core sales people like realtors and car dealerships. These are the people who need to be concerned about their cards getting thrown away. You definately got me thinking about the picture idea and I am going to make a point of looking at different cards in my area. I have seen pictures of other healthcare professionals on "brochures" for the practice explaining their specialty but I do not recall any of their "cards" having a picture.
Posted by: JD | November 05, 2007 at 08:34 AM