One of my goals for 2010 is keeping myself organized.  A stumbling block for most, is all the business cards that are accumulated over a week of networking.  I will share with you my procedure with hopes that it will help you reign in your stack of cards as well.

First, when at an event I separate out those who I want to contact immediately or who have a serious inquiry about my services.  This way when I get home from the event ,  I then have what I need handy to make my follow-up contact.  Immediately after returning from the function, I touch with those who I have separated out and review the others to see if there are contacts that will compliment my services.

Next, and usually at the end of the week, I scan all my cards so that I have an electronic copy and can easily import into my master contacts file.  After scanning my cards I then put most in a card book that I carry with me.  My book allows me easy access to information for those contacts I met whom I can refer.  By scanning for myself I do not have to worry about giving away important information that I will need for the future.

After importing my new contacts to my master networking list, I then look to my social networks to see if anyone participates and include them in my virtual networks.  This will allow me to keep in touch with networking contacts that I have met but will not see for some time.

Networking is about building relationships so it is important that you do something with your cards other than store in a drawer.  Regardless of what method or system that you have, you should attend to the cards once a week and make the necessary follow-up.  What methods do you employ for your business cards?

All the best,