This tactic of the game was hard for me to master and at first I failed many times. I carried my business cards only in my briefcase, because I thought they were only used in business. Wrong! I missed quite a few opportunities to toot my horn because of that misconception. Not only did I miss the opportunity, but when it did arise, I looked like an amateur. Here’s what happen on one of those occasions.

One day while standing in a bank line waiting to make a deposit – by the way, it was the merchant bank line; a nicely dressed gentleman noticed I had several checks from different companies. He asked about my occupation. I cheerfully explained my business and qualifications. He stated that he was impressed and promptly asked for my business card. Oops! I didn’t have one in my possession. I had to meekly admit that I did not have one with me. He now realized I was new to the game and in a teaching tone, he suggested I should carry them in my wallet. He went on to explain, that I should never be

New to the game, I truly didn’t think people would just ask you for a business card. When I related this incident to my boyfriend Tim, he chimed in.

“Why wait for people to ask? Don’t be a secret agent; leave them for people to find.” He continued, “When you leave a tip on the lunch table, leave your business card.

“What?” I questioned, “I don’t think a waitress or buss boy would use my services."

"You don't know that." he calmly continued, "Besides they may know of someone who needs your services. Standing in lines or elevators are the best places to sell yourself," with that he winked and said, "you've got a captive audience."

### Gina Novelle (copyright 12-2004)

Gina Novelle is a published free lance writer. Her company sponsors the web site http://www.thirdpocket.com, a support site for the self-employed. Her book, “Business Secrets Men Don’t Tell Women” reveals how women and men view self-employment differently and will be available in 2005. She currently offers her services as an Ezine Writer to optimize search engine ratings. gina@exclusivemarkets.net

• 3 Simple But Powerful Off-Line Advertising Strategies


• The Key To Marketing New Ideas!


• Go Ahead Im Listening


• Advertising Primer for Fast Learners


• The ONLY Type Of Advertising People LOVE!!


• Buying Radio? Read This and Dont Waste Your Money


• Finding Your Target Market


• Wheres Me Pot of Gold and Lucky Charms?


• Prove It! - Give Your Marketing and Advertising More Credibility


• Not Another Calendar! - Choose Advertising Specialties That Sell


• Unlock The Power Of Online Groups


• Advertainment is Sneaking Into Music, Movies, TV and More


• Increase Business By Being Nice


• Driving Customers to You - Your Car as a Marketing Vehicle


• The Inside Secrets Of Free Publicity For Your Business