Business Networking - 3 Business Card Tips for Making a Great Impression That Doesn't Cost a Cent

Business cards are a great tool to help you make a positive first impression. The Japanese have an elegant way of presenting business cards. They hold out the card in front of them with both hands, and hand over the card with a slight bow. It's a sign of respect, and almost becomes a little ceremony. When they receive your card, they look at it carefully and admire it. You are expected to do the same when you receive their card.

How can you use this etiquette to make a great impression in business today? You don't have to be Japanese, and the extra moments you take in handing out your business cards won't cost you a penny.

1. Compliment the card. When you receive a business card, don't stuff it into your pocket. Instead, take a moment and look at it carefully. Admire it. Find something to say, and make a positive comment. It can be about their product or service, their logo, or the location of their office. It doesn't matter what you say, as long as it's positive. In reality, you are complimenting the person who gave you the card.

2. Treat it with respect. Don't fold the card in half. Don't pick your teeth with it. Never put it into your back pocket and sit on it. Don't write anything on it without first asking permission. Instead, carefully place it in a business card holder or pocket of your jacket.

3. Don't hand out your card while you are shaking hands. When you meet someone and shake hands, give that person your full attention. Make eye contact long enough to notice the color or his or her eyes. Shake hands warmly and firmly. Smile. Say their name, and how nice it is to meet them. Then when you exchange business cards afterwards, make that a small ceremony, as with the Japanese. It will give you a way to connect again.

Business card etiquette says a great deal about your professionalism in general. It only take a few seconds, and doesn't cost a penny to show etiquette when you hand out a business card. Why not take that extra step to create a great first impression?

You are invited to use these tips to make a great first impression when networking.

Tips for a Smooth Home Business Insurance Claim

If you ever have to file a home business insurance claim, take steps to ensure the process goes smoothly. Provide your insurer with as much information as necessary to ensure payout. Carefully read the details of your insurance policy when you purchase it and look over the policy again before you file a claim.

The first thing you need to do is call the police or fire department if the damage was caused by an accident, fire, fraud, theft or vandalism. A police report and other necessary documents need to be on file. Next, contact your insurer and relay the problem. Gather receipts and any other documents that demonstrate proof of ownership. It is strongly recommended that you maintain copies of business records such as assets and inventory in a safe place, preferably off-site. You will need access to these documents if your home business incurs loss or damage or a lawsuit is filed against your business.

Have professionals assess and repair the damage as soon as possible. Obtain at least two or three repair estimates from reputable sources. Typically, you do not need authorization from your insurer to make emergency repairs that ensure the business is safe and operational. Keep in mind the insurer needs to see receipts for repair parts and services.

Consider having an attorney prepare the insurance claim. Attorneys who specialize in insurance claims know the information an adjuster needs to settle the claim. It is also a good idea to obtain legal counsel if the claims process stall due to a dispute.

If you plan to file an interruption of business claim, expect to show the level of income your business was generating before and after the loss. Maintain detailed records of all your business activity, including any expenses you incur while operating out of temporary location. Also note recurring expenses like phone and utilities if you must temporarily close or shut down service.

Establish a specific timeframe for the claims process. Neglecting to follow up may result in a claim delay. Keep in close contact with your insurance representative if you feel the claims process is not progressing fast enough. File a complaint with the insurance company if you think the claim has stalled. Try contacting your state department if you continue to have problems with the insurance company. Contact an attorney if you would like to pursue legal action.

Know when to cut your losses. Filing an insurance claim often increases business insurance premiums. You must weigh the cost of repair or replacement against the cost of higher premiums. In some cases, you may be better off spending the money to make the repairs yourself.