Life Of E's

Question:

In the Scott Ginsberg article about business cards, he suggests that we use a local printer rather than purchase our business cards on-line. What is your opinion on this? Also, what is your opinion on having a picture of yourself on the card as compared to a logo?

Hi, Billy. Welcome! Some of the on-line printers are OK, but others aren’t as good. I checked the Speaker Net News Compilations and there is someone who asked about on-line business card printing. Here’s the link:

http://www.speakernetnews.com/post/4colorbusinesscards.html

Even given these recommendations, here is what I’d say about using someone local:

It’s great to develop relationships with real people that you see and know. Sometimes (like when you use www.elance.com) you never meet the person, but for other things where you may be using the business or service over and over, it’s nice to be recognized. I’ve used my same printing company for at least 12 or 13 years and I would have trouble switching, even if someone charged me a little less. They know me and the like having my business.

And, as I mentioned in the “Make A Difference (and Make Money) Teaching Teachers” class this summer, some of the on-line ones want to include their business info on your stuff (and that’s why they do it for free).

So, that’s my thoughts on this.

Then, as far as having a picture of yourself, LOTS of speakers do that because it’s YOU that you’re selling and people like to be able to see who you are. So, this is one that even if you use a logo on the front of your card, you could always have a picture on the back. Having a professional photo done is going to serve you well anyway, because many organizations you speak for will want to include your picture.

Thanks for your great questions.

Meggin

Question:

This is somewhat in response to Billy’s question about using his picture on his card. I’m thinking about having a caricature done for my website rather than use an actual photograph. I think a caricature is more like my personality than a photograph could ever be (does this mean I think I’m a cartoon? ☺). What would you say about this?

Answer:

Hahaha! I don’t think you’re a cartoon, but I do think a caricature is a good idea (and obviously, this is what I use, but in this case, I’m not predisposed to that at all).

I think I’d put it out on elance.com and see if there are some people who bid on that. I’m sure there will be.

I love this idea for you!

Meggin