Business card distribution has become a habit ? a part of our daily routine. Someone asks for our business card, we hand it over, and never give it another thought. Most of us probably assume that because the business card was requested, there is a great interest in what we have to offer. Think again!

Asking someone for a business card and stating something along the lines of ?Thanks, I'll think it over and get back to you? is the perfect getaway remark. If you have strong perception skills, you will probably pick up on the fact that someone who says this to you, is likely not going to think it over at all. He or she is looking for an easy, courteous way to end the conversation and move on. The good news is that you can capitalize on such a situation, and possibly turn it around in your favor.

You'd be surprised how effective an honest, straight forward question can be. If you feel as though your new contact has little intention of giving your offer serious consideration, speak up. For example, you could say something like this: ?Seems like lately everyone that asks me for a card doesn't end up making a purchase. If you're not interested, you can just be honest with me, I'll save a business card and I won't have to worry about hearing back from you. If I give you a card, will you seriously consider my offer and let me know?? Believe it or not, this is a sales tactic, and if executed properly, can be quite an effective one.

In a less direct approach, when you hear that wave of uncertainty in your recipient's voice, you could respond with something like this: ?You know what, why don't you give me your business card, and now that I know where your interests lie, let me put some detailed information together to send you, and I'll include my business card in the package.? This tactical response is personalized, and will prove to your new contact that you are willing to put in extra efforts in order to make the sale.

It is common to assume that the more business cards you can hand out, the better. Unfortunately this is not always the case, and to further illustrate this point (for those of you who have been in business for some time) think of how many business cards you've given away and how many of those have resulted in additional business. Chances are, if you circulate your cards without any discretion whatsoever, your conversion ratio is not high. Maybe it's time to try something a little different. Save a card?and gain a customer.