A Name Badge is a Valuable Tool at a Networking Event

 

by Larry Baltz

 

 

Mixers, After-Hours socials, and Meet & Greets. Don't settle for looking like everyone else when you attend a business networking event. Name tags are a great way to stand out.

Instead of using the standard badges provided at the event, have your own special group of badges. For just a few dollars you can purchase materials that will allow you to create your personal set of distinctive tags. You easily get noticed while everyone else wears the same as everyone else.

Add your value statement, some color, your logo, whatever is appropriate - particularly something that appeals to your target markets. You can produce several different ones in-house very inexpensively or have them done by a commercial printer, depending on the event you attend and the audience involved.

Always pay attention to the badge holders when you attend conferences too. If one is ideally suited to one of your target prospect groups, then keep it for future use. I attended an event recently where the theme was "Driving Business" , which is perfect for my target market, since my focus is helping small business owners get more clients and sell more products and services. Since the theme was printed on the badge holder, instead of trashing it when the conference was over, I saved it for future events.

You can also consider a few other options to really stand out:

 

1. Wear your name tag upside down (many people will stop you and let you know that you need to fix your badge - what a great time to get to meet them)

 

2. Create a giant name badge that can't be missed. You can easily create one by printing a full-size page and using a sheet protector as the badge holder.

 

3. Consider adding the "Title Ribbons" at the bottom of the badge as well. You can order small quantities from several sources (a great one is PC Nametag). You can get standard ones like CEO, Exhibitor, or Ambassador, but if you like to have fun, try "Big Cheese" or "Official Something", which are also available.

 

4. Instead of your name, why not a question:  Interested in getting more clients? (Insert your benefit question here)

 

The possibilities for creative name badges are unlimited. Just keep the focus of the message on a benefit to your prospects.

 

Larry Baltz works with small business owners who want to Stand Out, Get Noticed, and Lead the Pack. He runs a company called Big Dawg Marketing. Larry is a Certified Guerrilla Marketing Coach and small business marketing expert. For his free report, "Big Dawg Marketing - 10 Creative Ideas to Stand Out and Get Noticed", go to www.BeTheBigDawg.com for your copy.