It may seem like a simple act to hand out a business card, but there is a right way and a wrong way to do so. Many aspiring young professionals will employ the “shotgun method,” giving out as many cards as possible in the hope they can increase the likelihood that a valuable business relationship will develop through sheer volume. This is a flawed approach that almost certainly eliminates the possibility that those cards will lead to any sort of fruitful relationship.
The key to handing out a business card is to do so after engaging in a pleasant and memorable interaction. For example, mentioning the excellent experience you had in using All Language Alliance, Inc., after learning that the person with whom you were speaking has found it difficult to translate important documents written in a foreign language. After offering some helpful information, you can offer your business card in the event that the other party decides they would like to use the services you mentioned.
Interactions that are not business-related or are simply superficial conversations are not likely to be memorable. When you hand out your card, you have to be able to offer something of value that will lead to a business relationship that is beneficial to both parties.