In a previous post, I described how to market yourself on Twitter using the TwtBizCard application. Now, we'll turn our attention to Facebook. Cardinal Blue Software created a very simple and easy to use business card application called Business Cards. While its features are somewhat limited, this application can help with a job search, professional networking or marketing your business to other Facebook users. To see a sample business card, view my Facebook business card here.
To get started: Log into Facebook and link to the Business Card application homepage. Select the 'Go To Application' button. The application will ask for your current status and other relevant information such as URLs to your websites or blog. For jobseekers
and business owners, these links can be used to point potential employers or customers to external Facebook sites like LinkedIn, KodaUS or VisualCV. Adding an online profile URL to the business card makes it easy for potential employers or customers to find you quickly. Accessing current information online is a plus when you consider the competitive nature of today's job market and global business environment. After you've entered all the information, the application allows you to select a business card design. The designs are very basic and simple to read - exactly what you want in an online business card.
Viewing Business Cards From Other Facebook Users - From the Business Card application, select 'View Cards, Recent Cards From All Users' - This option provides a preview of business cards recently added by other Facebook users. You can review, save and even send a comment to the cardholder from this view. It's a great way to find others in your field, industry or who share your interests.
Sending your card to Facebook contacts - Currently, you can only forward business cards to your Facebook friends. At the bottom of the Business Cardcapplication page, select the 'Invite' button. Select up to 20 Facebook friends and forward a copy of your business card. It will also allow those friends to create business cards using this application. Jobseekers should include contacts (recruiters, HR staff, company contacts) in your Facebook friends list. Don't have any? Check out Facebook groups and/or fan pages to meet new people. Business owners and networkers should also ensure key contacts are included in their Facebook friends list.
You can also search the most popular and recently created business cards. If you see a card that you like or an opportunity to network, simply save the business card. You can review all saved business cards by selecting the 'My Friends' link in the menu above your business card. You can also edit contact or status information on your business card at any time. The application description states you can attach business cards to Facebook messages and your Facebook profile page. When I tested these options, they did not work. However, the other features make this application a valuable tool. Use the Business Card application to get the word out about your goals, interests or company.
*photo courtesy of Flickr & LaughingSquid
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