Is there a wrong time to exchange cards?

I was talking with a client the other day about a networking event he attended recently. He mentioned that he had wanted to approach one of the speakers after the talk but didn't know what to say.

It is sometimes awkward to approach a speaker, especially when people are swarming around, wanting a moment's attention. That isn't always the best time to make an impression, but you can certainly plant a seed for later.

So I suggested that, after saying something like, "I really enjoyed your ideas," he could say, "Let’s exchange business cards.”

There was a moment of silence and I wasn't sure if he was still there.

Then he said, "Are you kidding? Why would he want to exchange business cards with me?"

Anyone else ever feel that way?

Comments

[Justin Beller]

That's a pretty good idea. It's quick and to the point and I don't think most people would object.

The rule of thumb I always follow with exchanging business cards is to judge whether or not I had an honest, meaningful conversation with the other person. If I did, then I ask to exchange cards.

[Colleen Wainwright]

I've learned that it's best to get the other person's card (as opposed to handing out yours unsolicited). So even if there wasn't a "let's exchange cards" forthcoming, it would be perfectly reasonable to add, "Could I get your business card? I'd love to follow up with you" or something along those lines.

[David Scott]

I used to be that way. Coming up with all sorts of reasons why people shouldn't like me or shouldn't be interested in what I have to say. Then I got that all these reasons are what was stopping me in my business. Now, I just get out and get into people's worlds despite what I may think the reasons are for not doing it. A simple "Do you have a business card?" can do amazing things to expand your circle of influence.

[Jonathan Selikoff]

Nobody should ever go to a networking event and NOT expect to give out business cards, even without deep, meaningful conversation. Even if I don't think the person will have any effect on my business, he/she may know someone who will.

I don't know if you need to specifically request to "exchange" cards. Simply ask for one of theirs and offer one in return. Done.

[Rian Heim]

I always try to arrive at least fifteen minutes early to any event. First, because I can not stand being late and second, this usually provides an opportunity to introduce myself to the speaker(s) before the mad rush at the end of the event. This usually provides the opportunity to engage in a quick conversation in addition to swapping business cards.

[Nicole Bandes]

I think the ideal here would be to request their card (only offering yours if they ask) and send them a follow up letter or greeting card thanking them for their presentation. Don't forget to ask for their birthday to have an extra reason to follow up.

In networking, we meet a good deal of people on a regular basis. If someone doesn't make an impact on me and doesn't make an effort to contact me after the event to get to know each other better, their card doesn't stay in my file long. I just can't keep tabs on everyone and I'm not even a speaker.

The best relationships occur when there is a two way connection but even a one way connection (the gentleman connected with the speaker) can be fostered if done properly.

[Linda Sands]

I agree with the idea of getting the OTHER person's card or contact details.
If I offer my card and the person doesn't contact me[which has happened in the past]there's not much I can do about it.
However, when I ask for THEIR card, I can be proactive about making contact with them.
It's been a good lesson to learn :)

[Fern]

In general, Speakers WANT you to ask for their card -- speaking is part of their own marketing mix.
It's completely appropriate to go up to the speaker and say, "Great session -- I'd love to have your business card." [And then I hand them mine. If they're busy with people asking questions, I don't hang around (unless I have a question too).]
I've even e-mail some of them -- either with a comment or regarding something I read on their topic and I'm amazed at how many respond - including a guy from the WSJ, Wired, and business.com!

[Traci Browne]

This was my favorite how not to moment at a networking event. I actually had a woman, who was talking on her cell phone, walk up to me while still talking on her phone, and shove her card in front of me. She never said a word, just kept shoving her card at me. At first I was not going to take it. Then I thought, I need to remember who this is. I took the card, walked away and wrote a note on the back as to how I received it...note, never do business with this person.

[Ilise Benun]

Traci, that is incredible! I may have to use that story in an upcoming talk.

Please don't get me started on what i think about multi-tasking while talking on the cellphone....

[lurker]

I like the comments. good advice in the comments.