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Introduction

In this blog, we will explore ten proven strategies and important tools, such as digital business cards, that can help you maximize your networking ROI. By understanding the concept of networking ROI, adopting key tools and metrics for success, building strong alliances, and leveraging unexpected opportunities, you can elevate your networking game to unlock its full potential and get on your A-game.

Understanding Networking ROI

Networking ROI refers to the value generated from your networking activities. It encompasses both tangible and intangible outcomes, such as business partnerships, career advancements, knowledge exchange, and personal growth. By recognizing networking as an investment, you shift your perspective and become more intentional in your networking efforts. Thus allowing you to allocate resources wisely and focus on activities that yield the greatest impact.

However, it’s not always easy to define or quantify. While some benefits, such as new clients or revenue generated, can be measured, there are also intangible rewards, such as enhanced reputation or access to valuable information and tools. It is important to consider both the immediate and long-term impact of your networking efforts.

One of the most important things to consider when evaluating your networking efforts and ROI are the tools you use. Embracing modern technology like LinkedIn and digital business cards is necessary to stay ahead of the curve and to successfully track, understand and direct your networking behavior.

Key Metrics for Successful Networking

To measure the effectiveness of your networking endeavors, it is crucial to identify and track key metrics. Some common metrics include tracking the number of new connections made, the quality of interactions, referrals generated, collaborations initiated, and tangible outcomes achieved. These metrics provide valuable insights into the impact of your networking efforts and help you evaluate your progress over time. By analyzing these metrics, you can identify areas for improvement and refine your networking strategies accordingly.

Types of Connections: Repeat Customers and One-Hit Wonders

Networking involves establishing connections with various individuals, and it is essential to understand the different types of connections. “Repeat customers” are the individuals with whom you consistently engage and maintain a mutually beneficial relationship. They become valuable allies in your network, consistently providing support and opportunities. On the other hand, “one-hit wonders” are those connections that may offer short-term benefits but lack continuity. While these connections may provide immediate value, nurturing long-lasting mutually beneficial relationships is crucial for sustained networking ROI.

Building and nurturing relationships takes time and effort, but the rewards are worth it. By focusing on building strong connections and nurturing them over time, you increase the likelihood of your organization receiving ongoing support, referrals, feedback and valuable opportunities.

The Power of Long-Term Networking

Research by networking expert Ivan Misner has highlighted the long-term benefits of networking. Building relationships is a long-term commitment, and the true value of networking often manifests over an extended period. As you cultivate and nurture connections, trust and rapport deepen, leading to increased opportunities and support. Patience and consistency are key elements in building long-term networking success. Remember networking is not a sprint, it is a marathon where the rewards compound over time.

Strategic Networking and Choosing the Right Events

Strategic networking involves identifying the events, conferences, services and opportunities that align with your goals and values. It is crucial to be selective in your networking efforts and invest your time and energy in activities that provide the highest potential ROI.

Consider the relevance of the event to your industry, client, or interests, the caliber of attendees, the networking opportunities it offers and any associated costs whether that cost may be the price of  a ticket, a flight or a meal. By being strategic in your choices, you can optimize your networking experiences and increase the likelihood of valuable connections.

Another aspect of strategic networking is to make sure that once you’re in the right space and talking to the right people, you get their contact details as smoothly and efficiently as possible. The best way to do this is through digital business cards, especially ones that live in your Apple Wallet or Google Pay and can function without wifi like those offered by Doorway.

Deciding the Networking Goal

Before attending any networking event, it is important to have a clear purpose and goal in mind. Define what you hope to achieve from the event, whether it’s connecting with specific individuals, seeking industry insights, or exploring potential collaborations. Setting effective networking goals helps you focus your efforts and maximize the value you extract from each event. It also allows you to evaluate your success based on the objectives you set and make better decisions to attend networking events on a go-forward basis, creating the optimal networking strategy over time.

Building Strong Alliances

Networking’s true power really only shines in strong alliances. While ‘weak ties’ are a great starting point and can bring a diversity of opportunities, focusing time and energy on developing strong one-on-one and group relationships creates long-term growth and opportunities.

The term “Island Alliances” refers to a close referral alliance within your network, these are connections with other members with whom you establish a deep level of trust, collaboration, and mutual support. By nurturing strong alliances, you can create a network within a network, a group where you can rely on one another for referrals, introductions, and assistance. These alliances amplify your reach and credibility, leading to increased opportunities and Networking ROI.

Quantifying the Value of Your Relationships

Within your network, it is essential to identify the connections that bring the most value to your professional goals. Not all connections are equal, and distinguishing the difference between social and professional relationships is crucial. This is by no means a comment on the person themselves or how much you like them, it’s a simple business calculation on purely professional terms.

While social connections are important for personal fulfillment, professional connections directly impact and determine your networking’s return on investment. By understanding the potential return from each connection, you can prioritize your efforts and invest time in cultivating relationships that align with your objectives.

Next time you leave a networking event, reflect on how many people you connected with and how many you think will become true connections. Make a habit on reflecting on this routinely to get an idea of how valuable your networking efforts and established connections are, as a way to guide your future steps.

Creating Mutually Beneficial Relationships

Networking is not just about what you can gain from others; it is also about how you can contribute and create value for others. This is an extremely important aspect most people miss. By nurturing relationships that benefit all parties involved, you foster a supportive network where everyone thrives. Initiate opportunities, share knowledge, provide resources, and actively seek ways to help your connections achieve their goals.

This mindset of collaboration and reciprocity strengthens your relationships, makes networking a positive win-win experience and positions you as a valuable asset within your network.

How to Calculate Networking ROI

Calculating the value of your efforts provides insights into the effectiveness of your work and helps guide future networking strategies. One simple method is tracking event ROI, which involves evaluating the outcomes generated from networking events compared to the cost of the resources invested. This can be done with an Excel doc or even some running notes, you can break down the analysis by type (in-person, online, etc), time and money it took and then return – you can even create another column to come back to later and add notes on what the long-term consequences were.

By considering the tangible results, such as new clients acquired, business partnerships formed, and sales or revenue generated, you can gauge the success of your networking activities and make informed decisions moving forward.

Leveraging Unexpected Networking Opportunities

Networking is not confined to formal events or professional settings. Opportunities to network can arise unexpectedly in everyday situations. Whether it’s striking up a conversation during a social gathering, connecting with someone on a flight, engaging through networking apps or groups with professionals from different industries, embrace these unplanned encounters. Meeting people from a different community, and then making sure to follow up, is a great strategy to generate valuable business leads.

Sometimes the best opportunities and connections come from spontaneous interactions, the less you have in common with someone then the more fun new experiences you have to offer each other. By being open and receptive, you expand your network of contacts and expose yourself to a diverse range of perspectives and opportunities.

When taking advantage of these spontaneous meetings, it’s helpful to have a method on-hand to share your contact details that doesn’t require internet, like Doorway’s digital business cards. This way, that lucky coincidence won’t go to waste and you’ll be able to stay in contact with the people you meet.

Expanding Your Networking Horizons

To maximize your networking ROI, it is essential to step out of your comfort zone and explore new networking opportunities. Seek events, organizations and communities outside your usual circles, attend conferences or workshops related to your interests, and engage with professionals from diverse backgrounds.

It can be daunting for everyone, whether you’re extroverted or not, to strike up a conversation with a stranger but steel yourself and have courage for just 20 seconds, we promise you you won’t regret it! By broadening your horizons, you increase your chances of encountering fresh ideas, feedback, untapped resources, contacts and connections that can propel your career or business to new heights.

Conclusion

Networking is a transformative force that can shape your professional journey and open doors to success, helping you create your dream life in the process. By adopting these ten proven strategies and practices to maximize your networking ROI, you can enhance your networking skills, build meaningful relationships, and unlock new opportunities.

Remember to approach networking as an investment, set clear goals, track your progress, have a mutually beneficial relationship mindset and embrace both the expected and unexpected networking encounters. As you apply these strategies, you will witness the cumulative benefits of strategic and purposeful networking. Combine that with the right networking tools, like digital business cards, and you’ll be unstoppable.  Get out there, connect with the world and maximize your networking ROI for a thriving and fulfilling professional life!

Sales and marketing teams don’t just attend events for the fun of it.

They’re there with a mission: to win new business, build their company’s brand presence, and network with potential clients.

Event marketing can quickly become a significant expense, depending on the scale of the event and the level of your involvement.

So, how do you ensure this investment is worthwhile? The answer lies in predicting, proving, and improving your Event ROI (Return on Investment) to both yourself and your superiors.

In this guide, we’ll delve into the importance of measuring event ROI, walk you through the stages of doing so, and provide practical tips to enhance your event ROI for future events.

Understanding Event ROI: What Is It and Why Is It Important for Your Event Marketing Strategy?

83% of brands say that event marketing has consistently increased their sales.

How is it they know this? They’re measuring it. But attribution alone isn’t enough to prove a marketing activity’s success.

Is it costing more to secure those sales than the sales bring in? Is it more cost-effective and successful than other marketing activities and therefore worth more investment going forward?

There’s only one way to find out—track and measure your Event ROI.

Keep reading for an Event ROI definition and to be introduced to a simple measurement model.

Event ROI Definition

ROI stands for return on investment while event marketing is a promotional strategy that involves face-to-face contact between brands and their consumers at events like conferences, trade shows, and product launches.

So, when we talk about Event ROI, we’re talking about the return on investment specifically from event marketing.

It’s a measure of the financial benefits these events bring to your business, compared to the cost of hosting or attending them.

Why Measure Event ROI?

Event ROI provides concrete data to prove the value of events to executives and leadership, helping secure buy-in for future events.

It’s one thing to say an event felt successful, but it’s another to show the numbers that prove it.

Of course, it also helps you know if event marketing is a worthwhile activity for the sales and marketing teams to take part in.

And it helps you identify which events are worthwhile and which might not be delivering the expected returns. This insight is invaluable in refining your event strategy and making informed decisions about where to invest your time and resources.

Knowing all of this can then help you pivot and improve your strategy for the best results.

How to Calculate Event ROI: A Simple Model

Calculating Event ROI might seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be.

You can calculate your Event ROI by taking the net profit the event brought, subtracting the cost of the event, and then dividing that total by the cost of the event.

Let’s say your company hosts a trade show. Here are the costs and returns:

Cost of venue: $10,000

Cost of marketing materials: $2,000

Cost of staff time (planning, attending, follow-up): $3,000

Travel and accommodation: $5,000

So, your total cost (investment) is $20,000.

Now, let’s look at the returns:

Direct sales at the event: $30,000

New contracts signed within a month following the event: $20,000

Future sales from leads generated at the event: $10,000 (estimated)

So, your total return is $60,000.

To calculate the Event ROI, you subtract the total cost from the total return, then divide by the total cost:

ROI = (Total Return – Total Cost) / Total Cost

ROI = ($60,000 – $20,000) / $20,000

ROI = 2.0 or 200%

This means that for every dollar you invested in the event, you gained two dollars in return. This is a simplified example, and actual calculations may involve more factors, but it gives you a basic understanding of how to calculate Event ROI.

Remember, when calculating the net cost, it’s essential to consider not just the direct expenses like venue hire or marketing materials, but also the time and resources your team invested in the event.

Other considerations might include comparing the time to close deals made at events versus other activities. This can provide additional insights into the efficiency of your event marketing strategy.

Setting the Stage: Choosing What to Measure

When it comes to measuring ROI, it’s not just about crunching numbers. It’s about understanding what those numbers represent and how they contribute to your overall business goals and your team’s key performance indicators.

This involves deciding what to measure and capturing the event data needed to measure it.

Hard Metrics vs Soft Metrics: Which Should You Measure?

Hard metrics are quantifiable measurements. They’re the concrete numbers that you can directly measure and track.

Examples of hard metrics in event marketing include the number of attendees, the number of leads generated, direct sales from the event, and the cost of the event.

On the other hand, soft metrics are more qualitative. They’re not as easily measured, but they provide valuable insights into aspects like brand awareness, customer satisfaction, and the quality of the relationships built at the event.

Examples of soft metrics include attendee satisfaction, the quality of interactions, and the level of engagement during the event.

Both hard and soft metrics play a crucial role in understanding your Event Marketing ROI. Hard metrics give you a clear, quantifiable measure of your returns, while soft metrics provide deeper insights into the less tangible, but equally important, benefits of your event marketing.

For example, Visme reports that 74% of attendees say they have a more positive opinion about a company after attending their marketing event. That’s a soft metric that a company will want to know.

What you measure is ultimately up to what your business cares about and their goals but we advise measuring both hard and soft.

The Importance of Data Capture in Measuring Event ROI

You can’t measure Event ROI without collecting event data. And you can’t improve it without understanding what the data is telling you. This is where data capture comes into play.

Data capture involves collecting and recording information from your event. This could be anything from the number of attendees and leads generated to feedback from attendees and observations about engagement and interaction.

Effective data capture allows you to measure both hard and soft metrics, providing a comprehensive view of your ROI. It also enables you to identify areas for improvement and track changes over time, helping you continuously refine and enhance your event marketing strategy.

Gathering Data: The Essential Step to Track Your Event ROI Progress

Collecting data is the cornerstone of measuring your Event ROI. It’s about more than just counting attendees or tallying up sales. It’s about capturing a comprehensive picture of your event’s impact, from the tangible returns to the intangible benefits. Here’s how you can do it.

Collecting Hard Metrics

Hard metrics are your bread and butter when it comes to calculating Event ROI. Remember our simple model: ROI = (Total Return – Total Cost) / Total Cost. To use this model, you need to collect data on both your returns and your costs.

Returns can include direct sales at the event, new contracts signed, and future sales from leads generated at the event. Costs can include the venue, marketing materials, staff time, and travel and accommodation.

You can track this information in a spreadsheet and through sales systems like Hubspot or Salesforce.

Collecting Soft Metrics

Soft metrics, while not directly included in the ROI calculation, provide valuable insights into the quality and effectiveness of your event. They’re an important indicator of event success.

These can include attendee satisfaction, the quality of interactions, and the level of engagement during the event.

To collect these metrics, consider using post-event surveys to gather feedback from attendees. Ask about their overall experience, what they found most valuable, and what could be improved. This can provide valuable insights to enhance future events and improve your ROI.

The Role of Technology in Data Collection

Technology plays a crucial role in data collection for measuring Event ROI. Tools like online surveys, CRM systems, and event registration platforms can automate and streamline the data collection process, ensuring you capture all the necessary information.

For example, online surveys can be used to collect feedback and measure attendee satisfaction. CRM systems can track leads and sales generated from the event. Event registration platforms can provide data on the number of attendees and their engagement during the event.

Analyzing Event ROI: From Data to Insight

Once you’ve gathered your data, the next step is to analyze it. This is where you transform raw numbers into actionable insights, helping you understand the effectiveness of your event and how to improve future ones.

What is a Good Event ROI?

So, what constitutes a “good” ROI? The answer can vary depending on your specific business goals and the nature of the event. However, a positive ROI, where your returns exceed your costs, is generally a good starting point.

But don’t stop there. Look at the trend over time. Is your ROI improving? If you’re seeing a positive trend, that’s a good sign that your event strategy is working. If not, it might be time to dig deeper into your data and identify areas for improvement.

Remember, a good ROI isn’t just about the numbers. It’s also about the qualitative benefits, like increased brand awareness and stronger relationships with customers. These can contribute to long-term growth and profitability, even if they don’t immediately translate into sales.

Event ROI and Future Events: Learning from Past Data

Analyzing your ROI isn’t just about assessing past performance. It’s also about using that data to improve future events.

For example, if your data shows that certain types of events generate a higher ROI, you might choose to focus more on those in the future. Or if feedback from attendees suggests that certain aspects of your event could be improved, you can use that information to enhance the attendee experience and potentially boost your ROI.

If your virtual event roi is proving better than in-person events, then that’s data you can use to focus on hosting virtual events that drive more event revenue. Especially since those come with a lower event cost.

Tracking new versus returning attendees and attendance rates can also provide valuable insights. A high rate of returning attendees suggests that your events are providing value, while a high rate of new attendees could indicate successful marketing efforts.

Practical Tips to Improve Your Event ROI

Here are some actionable strategies to increase your event ROI:

Effective Event Marketing: A well-planned and executed event marketing strategy can significantly improve your event ROI. This includes pre-event promotions, engaging content during the event, and post-event follow-ups.

Targeted Audience: Ensure that your event is reaching the right audience. The more aligned the audience is with your product or service, the higher the chances of conversions and thus, higher ROI.

Engaging Content: The content of your event should be engaging and valuable to your audience. This will increase attendee satisfaction and the likelihood of them turning into customers.

Measure and Analyze: Use analytics to measure the success of your event. This data will help you understand what worked and what didn’t, allowing you to make improvements for future events.

Utilizing Doorway for Maximizing Event ROI

Doorway is a digital business card provider that can enhance your event marketing ROI. It serves as a powerful tool for networking, lead generation, and relationship building.

Doorway allows you (marketing and sales) to share contact details seamlessly, making it easier to connect with people you meet at events. This can lead to valuable business relationships and partnerships, which can indirectly boost your event ROI.

Once you’ve made that connection and shared your details, you can follow up with potential leads and clients, nurturing them until they’re ready to buy.

Event marketing is all about relationship building and showing prospects exactly how you can help them achieve their goals—Doorway facilitates exactly that.

There’s ample opportunity to expand our online networks as well as our in-person ones. Are you capitalizing on it? Or are you putting in minimal effort for minimal reward?

Maybe you want to transition from having no digital networking strategy to building one.

If that’s the case, this article can help you do just that.

We’ll cover:

• The power digital networking holds
• 10 steps you can take to build your online network
• The tools you can use to help
• How to marry traditional networking with digital networking

The Power of Digital Networking

The transition from traditional to digital networking isn’t about abandoning one for the other; instead, it’s about enhancing and expanding.

Traditional networking, with its business cards (preferably digital business cards!) and face-to-face interactions, holds a unique charm and personal touch.

But it can be limited to geography, time, and access. You can’t be everywhere at once.

Digital networking, on the other hand, amplifies these traditional methods by breaking down these barriers.

It enables you to reach out to professionals worldwide, exchange ideas, and cultivate partnerships without the constraints of location and allows you to reach a much larger audience.

For example, a single LinkedIn post can reach thousands of people in a few hours. The only way to replicate that reach in the real world is if you were giving a public speech. But even that would require everyone to be in the same place.

A strong digital network can unlock doors to new business opportunities, partnerships, and collaborations.

It can also amplify your brand visibility, credibility, and influence in your industry.

And that’s true for your company or your personal brand.

Building a Strong Digital Network (10 Key Steps You Can Take)

Knowing the power of a strong digital network isn’t enough. You need to build one. You’ve probably heard the phrase, “your network is your net worth.”

And it’s true. The relationships you cultivate can open doors to job opportunities, investment opportunities, and more.

In fact, 80% of professionals believe that career success can be elevated through professional networking. That belief surely comes from experience.

But building a network isn’t an overnight task. It’s a long-term investment that requires consistent effort and strategic planning.

And just like traditional networking, digital networking relies on putting yourself out there and creating opportunities to connect with others.

Here are 10 steps (and strategies) you can use to build a strong digital network:

1. Define Your Networking Goals
2. Identify Your Target Audience
3. Leverage LinkedIn
4. Engage in Online Communities
5. Attend Virtual Events
6. Share Valuable Content
7. Utilize Digital Business Cards
8. Follow Up and Stay Connected
9. Provide Value to Your Network
10. Regularly Review and Adapt Your Strategy

Let’s build out each step:

1. Define Your Networking Goals

Before you start networking, it’s crucial to define what you hope to achieve. Are you looking to find potential clients, learn from industry leaders, or build your personal brand? Having clear goals will guide your networking efforts and help you measure your success.

2. Identify Your Target Audience

Knowing who you want to connect with will help you focus your networking efforts. Identify the types of professionals, industries, or roles that align with your networking goals.

3. Leverage LinkedIn (And Other Social Media Platforms)

Social media platforms are powerful tools for networking. LinkedIn is a great place for building your professional network and establishing yourself as a thought leader.

Ensure your profiles are complete and professional, and actively engage with your others by liking and commenting with posts related to your industry and interests. You can also start to ‘connect’ with people you don’t know in real-life this way.

Take it from Tim Hanson who’s accumulated 25k followers on LinkedIn over the last year. His bit of advice for those building out their digital network on LinkedIn is:

Engaging on other posts gets you pretty far and exposes you to audiences others have built but don’t forget to build your own audience and create posts yourself.

4. Engage in Online Communities

Join online communities relevant to your industry or interests. Participate in discussions, answer questions, and establish yourself as a knowledgeable and helpful resource.

Slack is a popular place to do this because there are hosts of groups (free and paid) that you can join and interact with others. An example of a paid community is the Copy Club for marketers.

They even have a channel where people can post asking for freelancer support. Freelancers can win business that way as well as recommend others for the work. Otherwise, it’s a great place to problem solve, bounce ideas off others, and meet new people.

5. Attend Virtual Events

Virtual events, webinars, and online conferences are excellent opportunities to meet and interact with professionals from around the world.

It can be hard to ‘stand out’ in large ones, so try and find small events where you can actually chat rather than be spoken at by an event host.

6. Share Valuable Content

Regularly share content that provides value to your network.

Sharing valuable content not only showcases your expertise but encourages engagement from your connections. It’s a great way to become an industry leader and for freelancers it’s a great way to get clients.

What does ‘valuable content’ look like? That depends on your audience but common examples are how to guides, industry news and insights, unique data points, and research.

7. Utilize Digital Business Cards

An effective digital networking strategy will incorporate in person networking too.

Digital business cards, like those offered by Doorway, are a modern, sustainable, and efficient way to share your contact information in person. They can be easily updated and shared, making them a valuable tool for digital networking.

While you’ll make those initial connections in person, the ability for your contact to receive links to your socials, your website, and more means the relationship can go digital seamlessly where you’ll nurture that relationship outside of the traditional sales and marketing environment.

8. Follow Up and Stay Connected

After making a new connection, you’ll want to regularly engage with your connections to keep the relationship active.

Engage with their posts, reach out when you have news that might be interesting to them, and make sure to respond when they reach out to you.

A little bit of effort can go a long way.

9. Provide Value to Your Network

Look for ways to provide value to your network, whether that’s by sharing relevant content, making introductions, or offering your expertise.

How you provide value will depend on the nature of your relationship. Are you trying to win their business? Then you might share with them industry news that educates them on their problems that your service or product solves.

10. Regularly Review and Adapt Your Strategy

As with any strategy, it’s important to regularly review your networking efforts and adapt as necessary. Keep track of what’s working, what’s not, and adjust your strategy accordingly.

By following these ten steps, you’ll be well on your way to mastering digital networking and building a robust network that supports your business and career goals.

Harnessing Technology for Effective Digital Networking

It’s only natural that technology plays a part in amplifying your digital networking.

Here are some examples:

• LinkedIn
• Taplio
• Medium
• Personal websites
• Slack
• Email
• Doorway – digital business cards

LinkedIn, Taplio, Medium, etc.

Platforms like LinkedIn, Medium, and even personal websites can help you showcase your skills, experiences, and establish you as an industry leader. They allow you to control your narrative and how you’re perceived in the digital world.

LinkedIn, for instance, is more than just a digital resume. It’s a platform where you can share industry insights, engage with thought leaders, and even find mentors.

For example, a marketer might want to connect with professional marketing leaders to learn from them and maybe even generate job opportunities off the back of a professional relationship.

 There’s also personal brand management tools like Taplio and Buffer who can help you grow and measure your Linkedin presence.

Email and Slack

Email remains a powerful tool for networking. It’s personal, direct, and gives you the space to communicate more extensively.

Tools like Mailchimp can help manage your email communications, allowing you to send out newsletters, share updates, or simply stay in touch with your network.

There’s also Slack—a platform where you can find industry related groups, participate in relevant discussions, and connect with professionals from around the world.

There are numerous public Slack workspaces dedicated to various industries and topics where you can share ideas, ask questions, and learn from experts.

For example, if you’re in the tech industry, joining a Slack workspace like “Tech London” can provide you with opportunities to network with other tech professionals, stay updated on industry news, and even discover job opportunities.

Tools That Help You Meet-up in Person

Attending specific industry events, both physical and virtual, should also be a part of your marketing strategy today.

Platforms like Eventbrite or Meetup can help you find events that align with your interests.

These events provide opportunities to meet industry leaders, learn about the latest trends, and connect with potential clients or partners.

Digital Business Cards

Finally, digital business cards, like Doorway, provide a modern and efficient way to share your contact information.

While it’s meant for in-person networking, it’s ease of use and ability to link contacts to your socials, website, and more helps lay the foundation for future digital networking.

If you want to learn more about digital business cards you can read our article that lists the best digital business cards on the market.

Balancing Digital Networking with Offline Interactions

The key to successful networking lies in striking a balance between online and offline interactions, creating a holistic approach that leverages the strengths of both.

If you regularly attend offline events, even when focusing on digital networking, you’ll provide a personal touch that digital interactions often lack. It allows for deeper conversations, better understanding, and a stronger connection.

These offline interactions can then be nurtured and maintained through digital means, creating a networking strategy that is both broad in reach and deep in connection.

Here are some strategies to integrate offline interactions with your digital networking strategy:

1. Leverage Digital Tools for Offline Events:

You can find offline events in your industry or area of interest. After attending these events, connect with the people you’ve met on LinkedIn or via email to keep the conversation going.

You can also use your digital network to find offline events or have your digital network attend them with you. That way you can transition an online professional relationship into an in-person one.

2. Use Digital Business Cards:

Digital business cards, like those offered by Doorway, can be shared during offline interactions.

The fact that the card lives in your phone’s digital wallet (Apple or Android) makes it seamless to share. You’ll never be limited by the number of business cards you’ve brought with you as the QR code technology can be scanned again and again.

Learn more about Doorway here.

3. Follow Up Digitally:

After an offline meeting or event, follow up with a personalized message through email or a social media platform. This helps to solidify the connection and opens the door for further communication.

4. Share Offline Experiences Online:

Share insights or experiences from offline events on your social media platforms or through email newsletters. This not only provides value to your network but also helps to keep you on their radar.

5. Create Online Spaces for Offline Communities:

If you’re part of a local industry group or community, consider creating an online space for it, like a Facebook group or a Slack channel. This allows for continuous communication and engagement, even when offline meetings are not possible.

The Future of Digital Networking: What’s Next?

Looking ahead, we can expect to see even more integration of technology in our networking efforts.

Virtual reality, for instance, could take virtual networking events to a whole new level, providing immersive experiences that closely mimic face-to-face interactions.

Artificial intelligence could help us manage our networks more effectively, providing personalized recommendations on who to connect with and when to reach out.

But no matter what the future holds, the core principles of networking will remain the same. It’s about building genuine relationships, providing value, and supporting each other in our professional journeys.

So, as we stand on the brink of this exciting future, there’s no better time to invest in your digital networking efforts.

And what better way to start than with Doorway—the perfect bridge between traditional and digital networking.

Sifting through stacks of business cards and keeping track of contacts can feel like a daunting task. As can managing the business cards of your employees.

Luckily, there are software options to help with both. But how do you know which one to choose?

We’ve done the heavy lifting for you and looked at dozens of business card management software options and judged them against set criteria.

Our goal? To ensure you find the software that not only meets your needs but exceeds your expectations and creates processes where you can exchange business cards easily.

And the result is this list of 11.

Criteria for Evaluating Business Card Management Software

Not all solutions are created equal, and your selection should align with your business needs, networking style, and technology comfort level.

Here’s a look at what we’ve evaluated each business card management software against:

• Features and functionality
• Ease of use
• Mobile compatibility
• Integrations
• Security and privacy

Features and Functionality

Not only have we considered how many features and functions the business card management software has, we’ve also considered the relevance of those features.

Because a feature that doesn’t help you is a waste. What type of features are we looking at?

Ones that help you: customize cards, organize and search for contacts, share cards.

Ease of Use

The software should be intuitive and easy to navigate, even for those not tech-savvy. From creating a new card to updating contact details on an existing one, the processes should be smooth and fast. User-friendliness, therefore, becomes an essential yardstick in our evaluation.

Mobile Compatibility

A good business card management system should offer seamless mobile compatibility, allowing you to network anytime, anywhere.

Whether it’s sharing a card at an impromptu meeting or scanning a card received at a networking event, the software should offer an effortless mobile experience.

Integrations

The ability of your business card management system to integrate with popular tools you use like your HR system, CRM, email marketing software, and social media platforms can significantly enhance its usability.

That’s why integrations are a major criterion.

Security and Privacy

Your data is precious and any tool that stores information specific to you should have robust security standards.

Encryption, secure cloud storage, and strict privacy policies are some of the aspects we’ve weighed in this criterion.

11 Top Business Card Management Software Options

When it comes to business card management, there’s typically two types to be aware of. There’s software that manages your employees’ cards and software that manages the cards you receive from others.

That can include digital business card providers and business card scanning apps.

Our list of the 11 best business card management software covers both.

1. Doorway – Digital Business Card Provider 

Doorway leads the charge as a forward-thinking digital business card provider. It’s designed with the needs of businesses and enterprises in mind, and has positioned itself as a sustainable, secure, and effective way to provide employees with business cards.

Pros

• Fortified Data Security: Doorway’s data security measures include SOCII compliance, ensuring your sensitive business information remains protected at all times.
• Shareable to Unlimited Contacts: With Doorway, there’s no cap on networking. You can share your digital business cards with an unlimited number of contacts.
• HR Software Integration: Doorway can seamlessly integrate into your HR software, enabling automated management of employee business cards.
• Effortless Updates: Updating contact details across all your employees is a breeze with Doorway. It keeps everyone in the loop without manual effort.

Cons

• Smartphone Requirement: Doorway requires users to have a smartphone, which might be a limiting factor for some individuals.
• Business Focus: While Doorway is excellent for businesses, it might not be the ideal choice for individual users due to its features and pricing structure.

Pricing

Doorway offers the first month free with its paid plans.

From there, pricing falls under four tiers:

• Starter Plan: $20 per month (for 20 cards)
• Professional Plan: $150 per month (for 20+ cards)
• Business Plan: $250 per month (for 150+ cards)
• Enterprise Plan: Contact the company for a customized quote

Best Use Case

B2B and Enterprise businesses looking for a comprehensive, secure, and automated solution for managing digital business cards will find Doorway a strong choice.

It ticks off all the boxes on our criteria list, offering rich functionality, ease of use, mobile compatibility, superb integrations, and stellar security, making it a worthy leader on our list.

→ Get started with Doorway’s Digital Business Cards ←

2. Sansan – Cloud-Based Contact Management

Sansan offers a contact management system with a unique spin, transforming business cards into a rich data source for Sales teams.

Pros

• Highly Accurate: Sansan shines in digitizing business cards, boasting a 99.9% accuracy rate. It supports most major languages, making it versatile for international use.
• Collaborative Database: Sansan promotes teamwork with a shareable database of contacts, allowing the entire company to benefit from each networking effort.
• Easy Workflow: Scan, store, manage, and action – Sansan streamlines these steps to simplify contact management.
• Great Integration: With built-in Salesforce compatibility and an Open API, Sansan connects seamlessly with your existing tools.

Cons

• Dependency on Cloud: Sansan’s cloud-based system might pose an accessibility issue if you experience unstable internet connections.
• Language Limitation: While Sansan can read and digitize many languages, there might still be some less common languages it doesn’t support.
• Lack of transparency: There’s very little information on their website about the cost of their virtual card management service.

Price

Sansan does not share their pricing on their website.

Best use case:

Teams seeking a seamless way to manage new contacts from business cards will find Sansan valuable.

But it does have limitations compared to other options. Doorway, for example, outperforms Sansan in terms of business card data security, mobile compatibility, and straightforward pricing structure. It’s crucial to weigh these factors to ensure your choice aligns with your business needs.

3. Hubspot Business Card Scanner

Hubspot’s Business Card Scanner caters to businesses looking for a quick, efficient way to digitize their networking efforts.

Pros

• Quick Scanning: You can scan business cards by snapping a picture. The information is instantly imported into your contact list.
• Hubspot Integration: The scanner is part of Hubspot’s expansive ecosystem, enabling seamless integration with your existing CRM and marketing tools.
• Mobile-Friendly: With an app-based operation, Hubspot’s scanner ensures you can network on the go.

Cons

• Limited Standalone Use: While excellent within the Hubspot ecosystem, the scanner’s utility might be limited without the full suite of Hubspot tools.
• Dependent on Photo Quality: Poor lighting or camera quality might affect the scanner’s accuracy.

Price

The scanner is included in Hubspot’s CRM suite which means you’ll need to set-up a Hubspot account. There’s a free (but limited) tier, a Starter tier at $50 per month, a Professional tier at $1,781 per month, and an Enterprise tier at $5000 per month.

Best use case:

If you’re already using Hubspot’s services or planning to, their Business Card Scanner is a valuable addition to your networking toolbox.

4. Knowee – Digital Business Card App

Knowee is a digital business card app that allows easy sharing and offers interactive card features, with a strong local presence in Spain.

Pros

• Easy Sharing: Knowee’s digital cards can be shared via email, WhatsApp, LinkedIn, and other platforms, making networking a breeze.
• Interactive Cards: Beyond simple contact details, Knowee’s cards can include video presentations and clickable links.

Cons

• Limited Design Options: Knowee’s cards may not offer as many design options compared to some other software on this list.
• Free Version Limitations: The free version of Knowee has some limitations, which might require a paid upgrade for a full-featured experience.

Price

Knowee provides a flexible pricing structure to accommodate different needs. There’s a free individual plan for basic use, while the Team Pack and Business Pack provide expanded features. For specific needs, Knowee offers a Customizable Pack.

Their plans start from an affordable $0.95/month per user.

Best use case:

Knowee is beneficial for businesses based in Spain due to its strong local presence, affordable pricing, and environmental ethos. However, businesses who want an app-free way of using their cards and a seamless management process that integrates with their HR systems should look to other solutions.

5. HiHello – Digital Business Card App

HiHello focuses on personalization, allowing you to create distinct digital cards for different professional scenarios.

Pros

• Create Multiple Cards: With HiHello, you can maintain separate cards for different roles or networking situations, providing flexibility.
• Quick Sharing: HiHello’s cards can be shared swiftly through a QR code or link, enabling effortless networking.

Cons

• Limited Advanced Features: While HiHello offers good basic functionality, it may lack advanced features provided by other software on this list.
• Limited Customization: HiHello’s card design options might not be as extensive as other platforms.
• Reliant on internet connection: Because it’s app-based, their digital cards require access to the internet in order to be shared.

Price

HiHello provides free personal accounts with premium plans for advanced features.

Their Professional plan is $6 per month for one user while their Business plan is $5 per user for 5+ users. They also offer a custom-priced Enterprise plan for companies with 100+ users.

Best use case:

HiHello is great for individuals seeking personalized, scenario-specific digital cards.

6. Abbyy – Business Card Reader

ABBYY is a business card reader that employs OCR technology to digitize business cards you receive.

Pros

• Accurate Scanning: ABBYY’s OCR technology translates photos of business cards into digital data with high accuracy.
• Multi-Language Support: The card reader supports 25 languages, making it suitable for global networking.
• Integration with Major Platforms: ABBYY integrates with platforms like Excel, Salesforce, and Outlook, helping you manage contacts seamlessly.

Cons

• Limited to Scanning: ABBYY’s focus is on card reading, and it may not offer comprehensive business card management features.
• Dependent on Camera Quality: The accuracy of the scan relies heavily on the quality of your device’s camera.

Price

You can get started for free but will then need to transfer to one of their paid plans.

Their plans start at $7.99 monthly.

Best use case

ABBYY is a great option for businesses needing to digitize a large number of physical cards quickly and accurately.

7. ScanBizCards – Business Card Scanner App

ScanBizCards is a convenient tool to quickly digitize physical business cards, making it easy to scan business cards and organize them.

Pros

• Fast Scanning: Using your smartphone’s camera, ScanBizCards quickly converts business cards into digital contacts.
• Integration: It seamlessly syncs with major CRM platforms and email systems, streamlining contact management.
• Human Transcription Service: For cards that are hard to read, ScanBizCards offers a human transcription service to ensure accuracy.

Cons

• Focused on Scanning: Its core functionality is scanning, so it might not offer the comprehensive management features of other software.
• Accuracy Dependent on Photo Quality: Like other scanning apps, the accuracy can be affected by the photo quality.

Price

There’s a free version with limited capabilities. Then there’s two core prices. One for or teams of up to 50 users at $100 per user per year and a custom plan for larger businesses.

Best use case

ScanBizCards is a practical solution for those needing a straightforward, efficient way to digitize a large number of business cards.

8. Covve – Business Card Scanner App

Covve brings a fresh take on business card scanning with a focus on preserving the human element in digital networking.

Pros

• Scanning and More: Covve not only scans business cards but also helps you manage and nurture your professional relationships.
• AI-powered News Engine: Covve’s AI keeps you updated with news about your contacts, giving you conversation starters.

Cons

• Complicated advance features: Covve’s scanning feature is part of a larger suite. For simple scanning needs, other apps might be more straightforward.

Price

Covve offers a free trial and an Annual plan at $59.99. You can also get unlimited scans for $119.

Best use case

Covve is great for professionals who want to maintain meaningful connections with their contacts.

9. Camcard – Business Card Reader

Camcard simplifies business card management by efficiently scanning and organizing cards.

Pros

• Quick and Accurate Scanning: Camcard ensures rapid, precise digitization of your business cards.
• Effective Organization: It categorizes your contacts, making them easy to manage and access.

Cons

• Limited Advanced Features: While Camcard does its job well, it may not offer as many features as other comprehensive business card solutions.

Pricing

Camcard offers different plans to suit your needs but pricing starts at $21 per user per month with a minimum of 10 users required.

Best Use Case

Camcard is ideal for individual professionals needing a straightforward, effective card scanning and management solution.

10. Scan to Salesforce – Business Card Scanner App for CRM

Scan to Salesforce makes it easy to digitize business cards directly into your Salesforce CRM.

Pros

• Seamless Salesforce Integration: Scanned business cards go straight into your Salesforce database, ensuring smooth data management.
• Quick Scanning: The app allows fast and accurate digitization of business cards.

Cons

• Dependent on Salesforce: Its usefulness is tied to the Salesforce platform.

Pricing

It’s a free tool but needs to be used in conjunction with Salesforce.

Best Use Case

Scan to Salesforce is excellent for businesses using Salesforce CRM and wanting to streamline their contact management.

11. MagneticOne –  Mobile Business Card Reader

MagneticOne Mobile provides an advanced business card reader that translates card data into actionable contact details.

Pros

• Highly Accurate Scanning: The reader is efficient and accurate, quickly translating business cards into digital contacts.
• Integration: It supports integration with popular CRM systems for seamless contact management.

Cons

• Focused on Scanning: While it provides advanced scanning, it might lack the broader management features of other platforms.

Pricing

MagneticOne Mobile offers several pricing plans. They start from $199 and go up to $9999, yearly.

Best Use Case

MagneticOne Mobile is a solid option for businesses focusing primarily on card scanning and integration with their existing CRM system.

Comparison Table of the Top Business Card Management Software Options

Additional Resources for Business Card Management

You may also find these articles and resources useful as you select the perfect business card management software for your needs.

• Networking with Business Cards: The 2023 Guide to the Future of Networking
• 12 Digital Business Card Examples with Use Cases
• Why Information Security should be an important factor when choosing your Digital Business Card provider
• What info do you need on a business card? (Updated 2023)

The following innovative tools not only offer an eco-friendly solution to traditional paper business cards but also can save time and provide a host of other benefits. In this blog, we explore the future of digital networking and why digital business cards are paving the way.

Summary

Paperless digital business cards are the dawn of a new digital networking era. These new digital solutions are by default more eco-friendly solution than traditional paper cards, but they also carry a vast range of other benefits and positive side effects, such as data collection and reducing the likelihood of losing contacts.

It’s important to go into your digital business card search with a set criteria and outcome, depending on the kind of business you have and what aspects are important to you. We broke down our search criteria into:

1) Design flexibility

So that you and your entire team can have complete control over how you present your company

2) Ease of use

Making sure that the cards are intuitive and easily used by everyone in your company, no matter their technical skills

3) Sharing options

To ensure that your networking efforts will be unlimited, with the ability to connect on any front and via any platform

4) Contact management

Because if the solution doesn’t have a highly effective and organized contact management then it’s definitely not the one

5) Pricing

As at the end of the day, you’ve got a business to run.

We found in our research that the top all-round best digital business card provider was Doorway. With all of the pros of digital business cards and none of the cons, cue working without wifi and easy integration, Doorway is the number one recommended digital business card provider. Second and third up was HiHello and Blinq, both offer solid software and an easy interface however HiHello is more pricy and Blinq lacks certain integrated features. Read on to discover which digital business card solution best fits your company!

Why Paperless Digital Business Cards are Gaining Traction

The digital business card has gained significant momentum in recent years due to several factors.

First and foremost, the environmental impact of physical business cards has become increasingly urgent and important to consumers. By transitioning to digital contactless business cards only, companies and individuals can significantly reduce their environmental footprint, which helps both personal green habits as well as a company’s ESGs.

At the same time, the rise of remote work and virtual networking has made paperless digital business cards a more practical, affordable price and efficient option. With more people working from home and engaging in virtual meetings and events, the ability to quickly and easily exchange contact information without the need for in-person contact has become increasingly important.

Another advantage of paperless digital business cards is their integration with contact management systems and customer relationship management (CRM) software. This allows for seamless organization of contact information and easy follow-up with potential clients or business partners. Creating more value per contact and increasingly the likelihood of mutually beneficial business relationships.

In conclusion, the benefits of going completely paperless with digital business cards are numerous and cannot be ignored. By reducing environmental impact, increasing efficiency, and integrating multimedia content on their virtual cards with contact management systems, companies can better promote their brand identity while scaling their business.

Advantages of Paperless Digital Business Cards

Paperless digital business cards offer several advantages over their traditional paper counterparts. They are cost-effective, with no printing costs and easy updates just a few clicks. They are also highly customizable and dynamic, with endless design possibilities and real-time updates. Additionally, they are easily shareable via email, social media, QR code, or via Apple Wallet or Google Pay technology. They also provide better organization of contacts with everything being automated to reduce clutter.

Cost-effective:

Since digital business cards eliminate printing costs by default, which can add up quickly, and are easy to update whenever necessary they are therefore much more cost-effective.

Rather than the extra cost of having to order new paper cards each time a change in company name is made, digital cards can be updated in seconds. Your company also only needs one card per employee instead of 500+ paper cards over the course of a year per person.

Customizable and Dynamic:

Electronic business cards offer endless design possibilities that are not feasible with a traditional business card. They can be fully customized to reflect a brand’s personality, with various design elements such as logos, images, social media links, QR code and color schemes.

Their dynamic and interactive design make them much more appealing and eye-catching than a paper business card, making your company stand out from the competition! What’s more, digital business cards can be updated in real-time, allowing individuals and businesses to adapt quickly to changes in their contact information or branding.

Easily Shareable:

Sharing paperless digital business cards is a breeze. They can be shared seamlessly via email, social media, QR code or (and this is our favourite) via your Apple Wallet or Google Pay – making it easy for individuals, large scale networking professionals and small businesses everywhere to connect with others. In comparison to print paper business cards, the contactless manner of virtual business cards also eliminates the hassle of exchanging them and the unfortunate mistake of losing them.

Better Organization:

Traditional paper business cards often end up in a cluttered pile, making it difficult to find the basic contact information you need when and where you need it.

With an electronic business card, automated contact organization is possible and incredibly efficient. Contacts on your mobile phone or device can be sorted, searched, and organized easily, which reduces clutter and saves valuable time when searching for a specific contact.

Top 10 Digital Business Card Solutions: A Comparison

In this section, we introduce the top 10 digital business card solutions on the market and evaluate them based on several criteria. These criteria include design flexibility, ease of use, sharing options, contact management, and pricing.

We have chosen these categories because they represent the greatest potential benefits and drawbacks of different paperless digital business card solutions. We provide brief descriptions of each solution’s features and how they compare to one another based on the criteria mentioned.

Criteria for Evaluating Solutions

Design Flexibility:

Design flexibility is an important criterion when evaluating paperless digital business card solutions. The range of templates and customization options offered can greatly impact the user’s ability to create a card that accurately reflects their personal brand and personality.

Solutions that offer a wide range of design options, such as different font styles, color schemes, and layout templates, are often favored by users. Having full control of the card’s design is incredibly advantageous as it allows the brand’s identity to be fully represented, making a lasting impact on the new contact made.

Ease of Use:

The ease of use of a digital business card solution is also a crucial factor in its evaluation. User-friendly interfaces and setup processes are essential to ensure that users can easily create and share their virtual business cards, without difficulty, even team members who are less technologically-inclined than others. Solutions that offer step-by-step instructions and tutorials are often preferred, as they reduce the learning curve.

Sharing Options:

The variety of sharing methods and compatibility with different platforms is another criterion that should be considered when evaluating electronic business card solutions. The ability to share electronic business cards through multiple channels, can greatly improve their reach and impact as well as impress the contact specifically by sharing it through the innovative channel of Google Wallet or your Apple Wallet. Solutions that integrate with multiple platforms and offer compatibility with different devices is often a necessity.

Contact Management:

Integration with contact management systems and CRM software is an important criterion as it provides one of the main benefits of using a digital business card over a physical business card, namely simplification of the networking and contact management process. Solutions that integrate with popular contact management systems and CRM software are favored as they allow business leaders and employees to be much more efficient.

Pricing:

Finally, the pricing of digital business cards is an important consideration. A comparison of pricing plans and value for money can help users choose a solution that meets their needs while remaining within their budget.

Some solutions may offer more features or better support at a higher cost, while others may have more basic features but be free or at a lower cost. It’s also important to consider which cards have a more advantageous pricing plan and set-up for ‘solopreneurs’ versus 500+ employee companies. Make sure to evaluate the cost-benefit ratio when choosing a solution.

Solution #1: Doorway

Digital business cards are becoming increasingly popular for their convenience and sustainability and Doorway stands out as the top provider of digital business cards.

Doorway digital business cards are uniquely stored in your Apple Wallet or Google Pay, making it easy, efficient and intuitively accessible with or without internet access. Its streamlined system is ideal for businesses that want to scale efficiently while promoting their brand identity.

Doorway’s benefits are numerous and include SOC2 certification for data security, customizable professional graphics, a centralized admin account, GDPR compliant technology, HR software integration, and analytics for card use. Making it a breeze to manage even for the most technologically-challenged.

It’s specifically designed for B2B clients, as its sharing function operates anywhere and everywhere – making a great impression on all potential customers or new contacts. It’s paperless, thus incredibly environmentally friendly by removing all associated waste and the need to keep reordering new cards.

Doorway offers tiered pricing based on different corporate needs, with the most popular option being the Professional Tier, which includes 300 business cards for $150. While Doorway may not be suitable for individual users who prefer physical cards (whether NFC or other), it is an excellent choice for businesses looking to prioritize sustainability, efficiency, and brand identity.

 

Solution #2: HiHello

HiHello is another popular solution. It offers a range of customizable templates and design options, with the ability to add images, logos, and links to your digital business card – giving the digital business cards a relatively high level of design flexibility. The platform also offers easy sharing options via email or QR code, however there is no apple wallet or google pay functionality nor NFC technology.

It has an interesting Self-Healing Address Book™ technology, that automatically updates and manages contacts. Our research found the platform itself was slightly complex, which might pose a challenge for some users though it’s not severe.

Finally, the pricing plans can be a bit expensive meaning it might be a less cost-effective option for big companies compared to a ‘solopreneur’. Our verdict is that HiHello is a good option, however it might be more suitable for individuals who are already quite tech-proficient due to its complexity and pricing.

Solution #3: Blinq

Blinq is a user-friendly platform for creating professional digital business cards, shared via either QR code or an NFC card. You can also set up a widget on your smart phone or Apple watch for easy access.

Blinq offers a teams option for larger businesses to customize employee cards, and integrates with Microsoft Azure, Salesforce, and Hubspot, a positive point for contact management.

While the customizable landing page allows you to add links to multimedia content, social media pages, payment options, email signatures and websites, the website template itself is quite restricted.

Unfortunately, there is no Apple Wallet or Google Pay feature and its fucntionality is reliant on internet connection. Pricing is reasonable, with a free trial and a $3/month subscription for all the features a single entrepreneur needs however the pricing plan is not geared towards large companies. Blinq is a great option for individual professionals who either use their Apple Watch or Zoom a lot.

Solution #4: Mobilo

Mobilo is an interesting choice if you want to go paperless while remaining physical. Mobilo is a NFC option which gives you a wide range of networking choices. They offer a minimalistic landing page with links to everything you need, such as basic contact information, social media, payment methods, and custom URLs – not an incredibly wide range of design flexibility.

Their Teams platform offers HR/CRM integration, great customer care and a user-friendly dashboard. While their landing page is not as interactive as their competitors, it has all of the social and link connections you’d expect.

Mobilo’s pricing is again excellent for single entrepreneurs, with no subscription fees for users, but for Teams the price varies depending on the size of your company and is not as good.

Solution #5: Haystack

With Haystack, you can personalize your digital business card by adding custom backgrounds, logos, and fonts, ensuring that your own business card reflects your unique brand identity.

The platform offers seamless sharing capabilities through email or QR code, making it effortless to connect with others and exchange contact information. Additionally, Haystack integrates smoothly with major contact management systems.

However, the pricing plans may not be suitable for those with larger networks or extensive networking needs. The costs associated with maintaining a substantial number of contacts can add up quickly, making it less cost-effective for users with extensive connections.

Furthermore, Haystack may lack some of the advanced features offered by other digital business card solutions in the market. Users seeking more advanced functionalities or integrations may find that Haystack falls short in comparison.

Solution #6: CamCard

Unlike the other platforms, CamCard does not provide a built-in business card creation function. Instead, it’s for individuals who prefer to design their own business cards with tools like Canva, though this does waste time & energy, then upload them into CamCard for efficient organization and management.

When it comes to pricing, CamCard offers a free version, although it includes advertisements. For an ad-free experience, individuals can opt for the paid version, which costs $46.99 per year.

In summary, CamCard caters to individuals who prefer to design their own business cards and offers a robust organizational platform. While the lack of built-in card creation may be a drawback for some, CamCard’s unique approach and functionality make it a worthy consideration for the DIY-inclined.

Solution #7: Kado Networks

Kado Network is designed to streamline the sharing, receiving, and organization of digital contact cards; offering the essential digital card functionalities such as card templates, a paper card scanner, and QR codes for seamless sharing as well as unified contact management.

It also integrates with LinkedIn, Gmail and Outlook, bringing together all your networking resources in one place. However, it is not Apple Wallet or Google Pay compatible and requires an internet connection.

In terms of pricing, Kado Network offers a free version, but it is limited to three users, making it inadequate for growing businesses. However, at just $4 per month, the app provides excellent value for the range of functionalities it offers.

To summarize, Kado Network excels as an all-in-one online networking app however its downfall is its reliance on internet connection and lack of Apple Wallet and Google Pay functionality. While the free version may not be suitable for expanding businesses, the affordable pricing for the app’s comprehensive capabilities makes it a compelling choice for individuals.

Solution #8: SwitchIt App

SwitchIt offers a comprehensive set of features to design, send, receive, and organize your business cards seamlessly within the app. This functionality enables effortless tracking of potential clients and contacts.

One notable advantage of SwitchIt is its versatility, allowing you to send your business card out to individuals who do not have the app installed, thanks to its integration with various social media platforms. SwitchIt empowers users to create visually appealing business card templates that can include contact details, photos, and even videos, adding a personal touch to your virtual presence.

With eight different methods to share your virtual business card, including email, text, QR code, and popular social media platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and WhatsApp, SwitchIt offers flexibility and convenience. However, it does require an internet connection.

The app provides the functionality to set reminders that sync with your Google, Microsoft, or Outlook Calendar, ensuring you never miss an important follow-up or meeting.

In terms of pricing, like many other digital virtual business card apps, SwitchIt offers a free version with basic features, while upgrades are available to cater to your specific needs. Overall, SwitchIt stands out as a popular virtual business card app but unfortunately it’s dependence on internet connectivity might sometimes pose a challenge.

Solution #9: Linq

Don’t confuse it with Blinq! Linq is an up and coming company specialising in NFC (short for ‘near field communications’) solutions for professional networking. Whether it’s truly paperless or not, we’ll let you be the judge.

They mostly sell physical cards & badges, however unlike traditional physical business cards though, they don’t have any of the waste associated with genuine paper business cards.

Companies can use the bulk creation feature for their business cards and grant employees access to add specific features like their LinkedIn accounts and contact info. Administrative access can be delegated to individuals to help efficiently manage hundreds of employees with the mixture of software and hardware technology.

Linq’s price depends on the product chosen (ranging from $19.99 – $36.99) but comes with a free app upon purchase. Team pricing plans are available upon request.

Overall, due to the nature of NFC technology Linq isn’t as obviously ‘paperless’ as we would want so in that sense it’s perhaps not as great of a choice. It’s opaque pricing plan for companies is also a bit difficult, thus making Linq a good choice for companies who want to have a token of traditional business relations with additional modern features.

Solution #10: Beaconstac

Beaconstac is a top-notch digital business card company that combines the power of digital and physical cards by using unique QR Codes. These unique QR codes can either be embedded within a digital business card, physical card, email or more for instantaneous contactless contact sharing. If you choose to use their digital business card option, instead of their physical one, then it’s definitely an interesting paperless option.

The dynamic QR Codes offered by Beaconstac allow you to update your card information in real-time, providing your contacts with the most up-to-date details at the click of a button, making it efficient at contact management and generally accessible. Because the technology is reliant on QR codes, there is slightly less design flexibility.

With pricing starting at $5 per month for dynamic QR Codes and a 14-day free trial available, you can try it out before buying. However, one must inquire for further details on team or company pricing.

Beaconstac is a good option with it’s ease of use, pricing and security efforts. However, it’s design limitations might prove difficult for company’s that prioritise unique and powerful branding.

Making the Switch to Paperless Digital Business Cards

We hope this was the push you needed to make the transition to paperless digital business cards. Whether you decide to adopt them for your own start-up or bring it up with your boss, getting ahead of the curve on this innovative and uniquely efficient networking method could make the difference between a sealed deal and a cold handshake. Think about what functions are priorities for you, your team and your industry, then go ahead and use them to decide which solution suits you the best.

QR codes have had a revival, spurred on by the global pandemic. You can find them everywhere—restaurant menus, advertisements, and business cards just to name a few.

And now, they’re an essential part of modern networking. To make the most of this powerful tool, you need to use them correctly and follow best practices.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through:

• QR code best practices that make for efficient networking
• Creative examples that help you stand out from the crowd
• URL management and security concerns when using QR codes
• The 4 simple steps you can take to create QR code business cards
• And alternative options you could consider

By the end of this article, you’ll be well-equipped with the knowledge and insights needed to harness the power of QR codes on business cards and enhance your networking endeavors.

Best Practices for Using QR Codes on Business Cards

If you want to make the most of QR codes and use them effectively on your business card—digital or physical—then you should follow the following best practices.

• Test it before you use it
• Make it visible and readable
• Provide a CTA
• Link it to a mobile-optimized landing page (if you’re using one)
• Keep the design simple

Importance of testing the QR code before printing

To avoid wasting time and resources, test your QR code before you use it for networking.

All you have to do is scan the code using a QR code reader (your phone has one built in!) to ensure compatibility and accuracy.

By doing so, you ensure your connections access your digital business card without any hiccups.

Ensuring the QR code is big enough and placed in a visible area on the business card

The custom QR code needs to be large enough and clear enough that the QR code reader can, well, read it.

Aim for a size of at least 1×1 inch (2.5×2.5 cm) to make scanning easier. Place the code in a visible area, such as the front or back center of your card, so it’s not overlooked.

Doorway’s Digital Business Cards creates custom QR codes automatically and ensures they’re the perfect size so that networking happens seamlessly.

Providing a clear call-to-action with the QR code

A call-to-action (CTA) encourages recipients to scan your QR code. It can be as simple as “Scan to view my digital business card” or “Scan for contact info.”

Make sure the CTA is easy to read and placed near the QR code for best results.

Linking the QR code to a mobile-optimized landing page or website

Most people scan QR codes with their smartphones.

So whether it’s a landing page or your professional website, optimize the user experience for mobile devices to make it easy for recipients to access and navigate your information.

Keeping the QR code design simple and clean

While it’s tempting to get creative with QR code design, simplicity is key. Stick to a clean, high-contrast design without excessive color or patterns.

A clutter-free design guarantees an error-free scanning experience, ensuring your digital business card reaches your connections without issue.

Examples of Using QR Codes on Business Cards

QR codes offer endless possibilities for showcasing your brand and skills on your business cards.

By using unique and innovative approaches, you can stand out from the competition and leave a lasting impression.

Here, we’ll share some creative and effective uses of QR codes on business cards, explain why they’re successful, and inspire you to create your own memorable cards.

Or head to our article dedicated to digital business card examples to get inspiration on digital cards specifically.

Showcase your portfolio

Creative professionals, like graphic designers and photographers, can use QR codes to direct recipients to their online portfolios. This saves space on the card and provides an interactive way to showcase your work.

Why this works:

It demonstrates your expertise in your field and offers recipients a glimpse of your work without the need for lengthy URLs or additional print materials.

Promote app downloads

If you’ve developed an app, use a QR code to encourage users to download it. This saves users the trouble of searching for your app in app stores and creates a sleek user experience.

Why this works:

This tactic can help increase downloads and exposure, showcasing your app development skills or your business’s innovative approach to problem-solving. It’s especially useful if you have a freemium version that leads to a paid subscription.

Offer a video introduction

Create a short video introduction of yourself or your company, and link it to the QR code. This engaging approach adds a personal touch to your business card, helping you connect with your audience.

Why this works:

A short introduction or welcome message helps humanize your brand, build trust, and establish rapport with your audience.

Connect to social media profiles

A QR code can link to your LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram social media accounts, providing a convenient way for card recipients to follow and connect with you on social media platforms.

Why this works:

With this approach, businesses and individuals can increase their social media following by offering a convenient way for recipients to connect and engage with them online.

Use on a Doorway Digital Business Card

With Doorway’s Digital Business Cards, networking has never been easier.

When someone scans the QR code on your Doorway card, your contact details are automatically transferred to their phone’s contact list or digital wallet.

This eliminates the need for manual data entry and ensures your information is readily available for future interactions. It’s also a more secure way to network.

You can set up a free account here or get started with a business account.

Why this works:

This standout approach to networking streamlines information exchange, enhances user experience, and reduces the chance of losing a valuable connection.

By offering a convenient and efficient method for sharing contact information, Doorway’s digital business cards position you and your brand as tech-savvy and professional.

Security for QR Codes on Business Cards

Using QR codes on your business cards requires proper management and a focus on security to protect your information and that of your recipients.

In this section, we’ll discuss potential security risks and best practices for ensuring the safety of your QR code business cards.

Be Aware of Potential Security Risks

Despite their convenience, QR codes can pose security risks, such as malware or phishing scams. Cybercriminals may use malicious QR codes to compromise your data or that of your recipients, making it essential to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions.

Doorway’s SOCII certification and use of hard-coded QR codes offer a high level of protection against security threats. This ensures that the data of users remains secure and provides peace of mind for both you and your connections.

Best Practices for QR Code Safety and Security

To ensure the safety and security of your QR codes on business cards, follow these best practices:

• Use a trusted QR code generator or QR code business card provider, like Doorway, to create your codes.
• Regularly monitor and update your QR codes, especially when linking to external websites.
• Use secure and encrypted URLs when linking to sensitive information or login pages.
• Ensure the QR code is only accessible to the intended audience by incorporating additional security measures, such as two-factor authentication or password protection.

By taking these steps, you can minimize security risks and maintain the integrity of your QR codes on business cards, allowing you to network with confidence.

Ease of Use and Set-Up for QR Codes on Business Cards

When it comes to incorporating QR codes on your business cards, ease of use and a smooth set-up process are key.

In this section, we’ll explore different QR code generator options and provide a step-by-step guide for setting up QR codes on your business cards.

Comparing QR Code Generators and Software Options

There are various QR code generators and software options for creating either a static or dynamic QR code for your business card. Some popular options include QRCode Monkey, QRStuff, and Scanova.

Doorway generates QR codes for digital business cards made in the platform but not for physical cards or external digital business cards from other providers.

When comparing these services, consider factors such as pricing, customization options, ease of use, and the level of security provided.

For example, Doorway stands out as an exceptional choice for QR business cards, offering seamless integration with digital wallets, top-notch security, and a user-friendly interface for creating and managing cards.

In fact, our use of a hard-coded dynamic vcard qr code keeps data more secure than your standard QR code business card.

Setting Up a QR Code on Your Business Card

If you want to set up a digital business card QR code you should read our article: How to Make a QR Code Business Card guide.

But, if you’re opting for a physical QR code business card you can follow the following step-by-step guide:

1. Choose a QR code generator or software. Research and select a QR code generator or software. You should consider factors like pricing, customization options, and ease of use.
2. Customize the QR code design and information. After selecting a QR code generator, customize the design to align with your brand. Then add contact details. You can choose colors, patterns, and even include your logo within the QR code to make it unique to your brand.
3. Test the QR code and make any necessary adjustments. Before printing your business cards or finalizing your digital card, test it with multiple devices. If you encounter any issues, make adjustments to the size, design, or information within the QR code and re-test until it works.
4. Print the QR code on the business card. Once you’re satisfied with the design and functionality of your QR code, incorporate it into your business card layout. Ensure the QR code is large enough and placed in a visible area on the card for easy scanning. Consult with your printer to confirm that the design will print correctly.

By following these steps, you can efficiently set up a QR code on your business card and enjoy the benefits of this innovative networking tool.

Alternatives to QR Codes on Business Cards

While QR codes have become a popular choice for sharing information on business cards, there are alternative methods available.

In this section, we’ll explore other options such as Near Field Communication (NFC) technology and link builders like Linktr.ee, as well as compare their pros and cons.

Alternative Methods for Sharing Information on Business Cards

Two notable alternatives to QR codes are NFC technology and URL builders.

1. NFC technology allows for contactless sharing of information by tapping your NFC-enabled card on a compatible device. This requires that both the card and the recipient’s device are NFC-compatible.
2. Link builders such as Linktree enable users to create a single page that consolidates multiple links, making it easy to share a variety of content through one URL. This option can be included on a digital business card via the QR code or used in email and on socials.

Comparing Pros and Cons of Your Options

Let’s take a closer look at the advantages and disadvantages of NFC cards, digital business cards like Doorway, physical business cards, and link builders.

As the table demonstrates, Doorway’s digital business cards come out as the best option, offering high security, extensive customization, ease of use, and the most sustainable choice.

While NFC cards, physical business cards, and link builders have their merits, Doorway’s digital solution provides a well-rounded and effective networking tool for modern professionals.

Doorway is especially relevant for B2B businesses who want to network their way to new business.

Get Doorway today.

Doorway is a digital business card maker that offers an intuitive and user-friendly platform for designing and sharing your unique professional identity.

But how exactly do you share these digital cards?

This article offers a step-by-step guide on how to share your digital business card across various devices—Apple, Android, and your desktop.

Each section is tailored to fit the specific needs of your chosen device, so feel free to jump to the process that matches your requirements.

Option 1: Sharing a Digital Business Card on Apple Devices

Step-by-Step Guide for Sharing a Digital Business Card on iPhones

Here’s your quick guide to sharing digital business cards using your Apple device.

If you already have your digital business card downloaded to your digital wallet, you can skip to step 2.

1. Download your digital business card to your Digital Wallet

The first thing you need to do is download your card to your Apple Wallet.

This process is slightly different depending on if you are an individual cardholder or are on your company’s Doorway account.

Don’t have your digital business card yet? Create one here.

Individual cardholders (who have a free Doorway account) should log in to their account and make sure your contact details are up to date. It’s best to do this from your iPhone so that you can download the card immediately from your account.

This is what it looks like from your phone:

This is what it looks like from your browser:

Company cardholders need to locate the email sent from Doorway on behalf of your company. It will look something like this:

Click the ‘Get Your Card’ button in the email. It will take you to this:

Your company will have uploaded your contact details for you.

The rest of the process is true for both company or individual cardholders. You need to click the ‘Add to Apple Wallet’ button in your account.

And there you have it! It’s in your wallet for you to use whenever you’re networking.

2. Open your Apple Wallet

Now that you have your digital business card downloaded, you can access it by opening your Apple Wallet.

Select your digital business card from the cards you hold in your digital wallet.

Having your card in your digital wallet allows you to share your digital business card quickly and effectively while networking. You’ll never need more than one card and it’s always on hand.

3. Show your card to your new contact

See that QR code on your card? That’s what you need to show your new networking contact. That QR code holds all of your contact info and transfers it directly to your new connections mobile device.

Show your card and have the other person scan the QR code with their smartphone’s camera. There’s a QR code reader built-in that will open up your contact details.

4. Have them save your details to their phone app

With Doorway cards, the QR code is hardcoded. That means it’s able to share contact details directly to your contacts phone app.

Other digital cards require you to go to a URL and then manually save the contact information but Doorway’s process cuts out that unnecessary step.

You don’t need to be connected to the internet for your card to work and Doorway is the most secure method out there for transferring data via a digital business card.

Your new contact simply needs to make sure they press ‘Done’ or ‘Save’ in their phone app to keep your contact details.

Option 2: Sharing a Digital Business Card on Android Devices

No Apple device? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Android users can also easily share their digital business cards with a few taps. Let’s take a look at how you can put your digital business card into action on Android devices.

Step-by-Step Guide for Sharing a Digital Business Card on Android Phones

Here are the steps to share your digital business card from your Android device.

1. Download Your Digital Business Card

First things first, you need to have your digital business card available on your device.

If you’re an individual Doorway cardholder, log in to your account on your phone’s browser and download the card from there.

If you’ve received the card from your company, find the email sent by Doorway on behalf of your company and download the card from the provided link.

It will live in your Android’s digital wallet. Now that’s convenient.

2. Access Your Digital Business Card

Once you have downloaded your digital business card, you can access it by opening your Google Wallet on your Android device.

3. Show Your Card to Your New Contact

Each Doorway card has a unique QR code that holds all your contact details. Show this QR code to the person you want to share your card with. They can scan the QR code using their phone’s camera to retrieve your details.

4. Have Them Save Your Details

The QR code from the Doorway card directly transfers your contact details to the other person’s phone app. Make sure they hit ‘Save’ or ‘Done’ on their app to store your contact details. This way, they won’t lose your information and can easily get back to you later.

With these steps, you’re equipped to use your Android device as a powerful networking tool, always ready to share your professional details through your digital business card.

Option 3: Sharing a Digital Business Card on Desktops

Virtual networking happens just as often, if not more than face-to-face. You might be connecting with someone over a Zoom call, LinkedIn message, or an old-fashioned email.

In these cases, sharing your digital business card from your desktop can help nurture your relationship and give your new contact the tools to get in touch.

Step-by-Step Guide for Sharing a Digital Business Card via Email or Messaging Apps

1. Take a Screenshot of Your Digital Business Card

The first step is to capture an image of your digital business card.

You can do this from the Doorway portal or your digital wallet. Make sure that your card’s QR code is clear and visible in the screenshot.

This is what your contact will scan to get your details.

2. Open Your Email or Messaging App

Once you have a good image of your card, head over to your email or messaging platform and open up a new message.

If you’re using an app like Slack or Teams, this would mean opening a direct message with the person you want to share your card with.

3. Attach the Digital Business Card to the Message

Next, you’ll need to attach the image of your card to the message.

Use the paperclip or ‘attach’ button to find the screenshot on your computer and add it to the message.

4. Enter the Recipient’s Information and Message Text

Fill in the recipient’s email address or phone number in the ‘To’ field.

In the body of the message, it can be helpful to add a quick note explaining what the image is and how to use it, in case the recipient isn’t familiar with digital business cards.

5. Send the Message

Once you’ve got everything in order, hit the ‘Send’ button. Your digital business card is now on its way to your contact.

What Else Should I Know? Tips for Sharing Digital Business Cards

Just as with a physical business card, there’s an art to sharing digital business cards effectively.

Let’s look at how you can use the effectively.

Customizing Digital Business Cards

Digital business cards offer an exciting opportunity for customization that you can’t achieve with traditional cards.

Showcase Your Brand: Use your brand’s color palette, logo, and typeface on your digital card to create a consistent image that reinforces your brand identity.

Include Relevant Details: Digital cards aren’t confined to a physical size, so you’re free to include more information than you could on a traditional card. Just remember to keep it concise and relevant. Want to include a link to a high converting landing page? Go for it.

Update Regularly: The digital format also allows you to update your card whenever necessary. If your job title, contact details, or branding changes, you can easily reflect these changes on your card.

Choosing the Right Provider for Creating and Sharing Digital Business Cards

There are several platforms available for creating digital business cards, but they’re not all created equal. Here are some factors to consider when choosing your provider:

User-Friendly Design Tools: Look for a platform that offers an easy-to-use design interface. You’ll want the ability to customize your card to fit your brand, without needing a degree in graphic design to do so.

Sharing Options: Different platforms offer different methods for sharing your digital card. Some integrate with your phone’s wallet app, others provide a standalone app or a web-based solution. Consider your networking needs when evaluating these options.

Data Protection: Digital business cards involve sharing personal contact details, so make sure the provider you choose has robust data protection measures in place.

Ease of management: Finally, look for a provider with a platform that’s easy to manage. If you need to update details across your company, update everyone’s card design, or offboard and onboard talent you want a tool that makes it seamless.

Doorway is user friendly, is available to share without an app and without internet, is SOC II certified, and allows for bulk user uploads and management. For a great provider, look no further.

You can sign up to Doorway here.

Why Share a Digital Business Card Over A Traditional One?

Digital business cards offer several key advantages over traditional paper business cards that make them a smart choice for professionals in any industry. Let’s take a look at a few of these benefits.

Environmentally Friendly

Unlike traditional business cards, which require paper and ink, digital business cards are completely eco-friendly.

There’s no physical waste to worry about, making them a green alternative. With the heightened awareness around sustainability, choosing to share digital business cards over traditional ones is a responsible and forward-thinking decision.

Always Accessible and Up-to-Date

How often have you found yourself in a situation where you’d like to give someone your contact information, but you’ve run out of traditional business cards?

With digital business cards, you’ll never face this problem. As long as you have your phone or a device with internet connectivity, you’re ready to share your contact details.

Plus, if your job title or contact details change, you can easily update your digital card, ensuring the information you share is always accurate.

Easy to Share and Store

Sharing digital business cards is a breeze. You can send them via email, messaging apps, or even through a QR code. Similarly, storing and organizing received digital cards is much easier and more efficient than dealing with a pile of traditional business cards.

Making the switch to digital could be a game-changer in how you network and connect with others.

Cost Effective

Traditional business cards involve costs for designing, printing, and distributing. Plus, you need to reorder each time you run out.

Digital business cards, on the other hand, are a cost-effective monthly subscription. You can share them infinitely without any additional costs.

You’ll save not just money, but valuable time and resources too.

Network Your Way to New Business— Get Doorway Digital Business Cards

With Doorway Digital Business Cards, you can confidently make lasting impressions and create meaningful connections.

Our platform lets you create personalized digital business cards that align with your brand and professional image. You can share your cards effortlessly, keep them updated with the latest information, and keep your company data secure.

Open doors and keep them open with a Doorway digital business card.

Get started here.

It’s a fast-paced world out there, and as a professional you’ve got to be on your A-game all the time. Using digital business cards and business card scanners can save you so much time and energy, streamlining your professional life by making networking more efficient. In this guide, we are going to explore how best to do this by step-by-step showing you how to create a digital business card using your Android phone and how to scan a paper one into your Google Contacts.

Simplify Contact Management with Scanned Business Cards

Scanning business cards into Google Contacts is a simple and efficient way to keep all your business contacts in one place. Instead of manually typing in contact information, you can quickly scan the business card and let Google Lens recognize the information for you. This method not only saves time but also ensures that the contact information is accurate and complete. By having your contacts digitized, you can easily search for specific contacts, organize them, and access them from anywhere using your Android phone.

The Challenges of Managing Business Cards

Before diving into the step-by-step guide, let’s explore the challenges of using traditional paper business cards.

Lost or Misplaced Cards

Paper business cards are prone to being lost or misplaced. This can result in the loss of business card data, valuable contacts or personal info, and missed opportunities for collaboration or networking.

Disorganized Contact Information

With a stack of business cards, it’s easy to lose track of a person and contact details. Contact details can be wrongly input, email addresses swapped and last names misspelled.

Difficulty in Searching for Specific Contacts

Manually searching through a stack of business cards and contact database can be time-consuming and inefficient. This challenge becomes even more pronounced as your company and the number of contacts grows, slowing down your workflow and project progress.

Scanning Business Cards into Google Contacts

Step-by-Step Guide to Scanning Business Cards with Google Lens

You don’t need a business card scanner app, you already have the best business card scanner in your pocket (and for free too!) even if you don’t know it! We’re going to walk you through a quick step-by-step guide on how to scan paper business cards to seamlessly sync their business card info into your google contacts.

Step 1

Go to your Android’s camera app, there you’ll be able to see the Google Lens icon at the bottom of the photo’s frame. As shown in the screenshot below.

Step 2

Next, click on that icon and hold the paper business card in front of the camera steadily.

Step 3

Wait for the camera to pick up the details, then click the little contact icon.

Step 4

Voilà! You can now successfully integrate business cards into google contacts!

How to Scan Business Cards into Google Contacts on an Android Phone

Step 1

Open the Google Contacts app on your Android phone.

Step 2

Tap on the Add Contact icon.

Step 3

Tap on Scan QR code.

Step 4

Hold your phone steady and align the business card within the picture frame.

Step 5

Wait for Google Lens to recognize all the information on the card.

Step 6

Review the information and make any necessary changes.

Step 7

Tap on Save to add the contact to Google Contacts.

Ensuring Accurate and Complete Contact Information

While GoogleLens is mostly accurate, there may be instances where the scanned contact information requires adjustment. After scanning the photo, just take a moment to review the information and make any necessary changes. This step ensures that the contact details are correct and complete, saving you from future annoyance!

Saving Contact Information to Google Contacts and Organizing with Labels or Groups

After scanning and reviewing the contact information, tap on Save to add the new contact to Google Contacts. To keep your contacts organized, you can use labels or groups in specific categories such as clients, colleagues, or suppliers. By assigning labels to your contacts, you can easily filter and search for contacts based on their category. Making everything simple, easy and efficient!

Maintaining and Organizing Contact Information in Google Contacts

To ensure that your contact and address information remains up to date and organized, follow these best practices:

Regular Updates and Backups

Periodically review your phone’s contacts, and update any changes, such as new phone numbers or email addresses. Additionally, please make sure to backup your Google Contacts to avoid data loss in case of device malfunction or accidental deletion. Nightmare!

Using Google Contacts’ Features to Avoid Duplicate Contacts and Streamline Collaboration

Google Contacts offers features to merge duplicate contacts automatically. Regularly utilize this feature to keep your contact list clean and avoid confusion. Furthermore, consider utilizing collaboration features such as sharing contact groups with team members to streamline communication within the organization.

Where Else Can I Apply This Learning: Streamlining Your Workflow with Scanning and Organization

The principles and techniques discussed in this guide can be applied beyond scanning and organizing business cards. Here are a few other areas where you can leverage similar practices to streamline your work life.

Scanning and Organizing Other Types of Documents, such as Receipts

Just like business cards, you can use scanning apps or features on your Android phone to digitize and organize receipts, ID cards, bills or any other valuable document. This way, you can easily either track expenses, categorize them, and simplify your financial record-keeping or ensure all of your personal information is organised and secure!

Applying Similar Principles to Other Contact Management Systems or Productivity Tools, such as Microsoft Outlook or Trello

While this guide focuses on using Google Contacts, the underlying principles of scanning and organizing contacts can be applied to other contact management software, systems or productivity tools. Explore the features and capabilities of the tools you use and see how you can streamline your contact management process within those platforms.

Conclusion: Streamlining Your Contact Management with Scanned Business Cards

All in all, it’s time to say goodbye to the hassle of traditional business cards and embrace the convenience of digital contact management. Give scanning business cards into Google Contacts a try, and experience the benefits firsthand. Empower yourself with technology; save business cards, simplify your contact management process, and take control of your professional network!

3 Questions People Might Have:

1. What if the contact information is not accurate after scanning?
   If you notice any inaccuracies in the scanned contact information, you can review and make changes before saving the contact. Google Lens is quite reliable in recognizing details, but it’s always good to double-check for any errors.
2. Can I use other apps to scan business cards into Google Contacts?
   While Google Lens is the recommended method for scanning business cards into Google Contacts, there are other scanning apps available on the Play Store that can accomplish the same task. However, using Google Lens within the Google Contacts app provides a seamless integration and makes a smoother experience.
3. How can I ensure that my contact information is secure and protected in Google Contacts?
   Google takes data security seriously, and your contact information in Google Contacts is protected by them. However it’s always a good idea to enhance security by having a strong password for your Google account and enabling two-factor authentication.

Now that you’re a pro at digital networking, you might also be interested in exploring related topics such as using productivity tools for time management or organization. You can find more articles and resources on these topics below on our website to further enhance your workflow and create your best work/life balance!

Looking to build your professional network?

A business card is the ultimate door opener. It has been for decades. But in 2023 there are multiple options to choose from and new approaches you can take.

This comprehensive guide helps you network effectively in the digital age and follow best practices so that you can make meaningful connections that turn into profitable relationships.

From choosing your card type and networking goals, to effective card passing, follow-ups, and FAQ’s – we’ll help you master the art of networking. Business card guidance awaits.

First, let’s see our guidance at a glance:

Now, let’s go into detail.

Preparing to Network with Business Cards – Laying the Foundations

As you gear up to network, there’s groundwork to be done. It’s not just about flashing your card at every event.

There’s the careful decision-making process about the kind of card you’ll use, the information you’ll share, the networking goals you’re aiming for, and the venues you’ll target. Let’s take it step by step.

Determine your networking goals

Before you venture out to network, clarity about your goals is paramount. Are you aiming to boost brand awareness, seeking to establish strategic partnerships, or looking to generate leads?

Each goal may require a different networking approach, a distinct message, and a tailored strategy.

When your goals are well defined, they guide every subsequent step of your networking journey, including your choice of business card.

Choose a business card type that aligns to those goals and your business aims

The business card you choose should be an extension of your business objectives and networking goals.

Here’s an example: if you’re a sustainable brand, you’ll want to ensure your networking efforts don’t counter your sustainability goals.

Equally, if you’re looking to network en-masse to generate new business, you’ll need to consider what business card type will help you do that most effectively.

Is printing 1000s and 1000s of paper business cards going to be the best use of funds and efforts or should you invest in a digital business card that lives in your digital wallet (cough, cough Doorway), is easily accessible, and can be used time and time again without creating waste?

These are considerations you’ll need to make.

You also need to think about the needs of your audience.  If you’re targeting tech-savvy buyers, a traditional card may fall flat. Instead, a digital card or an NFC card could demonstrate that you’re as forward-thinking as they are.

Need help choosing the right type of digital business card? You can find out more information in our article: The 11 Best Digital Business Cards – Who, What, and Why.

Or sign up to Doorway! You can speak to sales if you’re a business or sign up for a free personal account if you’re a solopreneur.

Include the right information

Regardless of the type of card you choose, what you put on your business card is essential. Here are the must-haves for an effective business card:

• Your name and job title: This goes without saying, but ensure your name and title are clear. Remember, your title isn’t just your job role, but a snapshot of your skills and expertise.
• Company name and logo: Ensure your company’s name and logo are prominently displayed. This creates brand recognition and makes your card more memorable.
• Contact info: In the digital age, this isn’t just your phone number and email address. Consider including your professional social media handles or website link, so potential connections can learn more about you or your business.
• Call-to-action: This might be a prompt to schedule a call, visit your website, or connect on LinkedIn. A clear call-to-action guides your new contact in the next steps of the networking process.

Remember, your business card is an extension of your professional identity. So take time to choose the right provider and information that best represent you and your business in the networking world.

Here’s an article to help: What info do you need on a business card?

Figure out where you will network (whether industry networking events or at your local watering hole)

With your card prepped and your goals set, it’s time to think about the arenas you’ll network in.

Do your potential clients frequent industry conferences or local business meetups? Are virtual networking events or in-person trade shows more their style? Could you bump into them at local businesses or a coffee shop?

Perhaps they’re active on social media platforms? Identifying the platforms that resonate with your audience allows you to focus your networking efforts more effectively.

Should you go to job fairs to recruit new talent and make new contacts?

After all, networking is not only about having the right tools but using them in the right places.

Passing on Your Contact Details with Business Cards: Best Practice

When you’re armed with the perfect business card, filled with just the right details, and have identified where to meet your potential contacts, the next step is to get your cards into the right hands.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to pass your business card effectively, whether it’s a traditional or a digital one.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Effectively Passing a Business Card

Step 1: Introduce Yourself and Make a Connection

Regardless of the kind of card you’re carrying, networking always begins with human connection. Lead with a warm greeting, introduce yourself clearly, and wear a friendly smile. This sets the stage for everything that follows, creating a positive first impression that resonates beyond the moment.

Step 2: Engage in Conversation and Show Interest

Before you delve into business matters, engage in some casual conversation. Ask them about their role, their company, or their experience at the event you’re both attending. Show genuine interest in their responses. This shows that you value them as individuals, not just potential business connections.

Step 3: Find Common Ground

As you chat, look for common ground – shared interests, similar business challenges, or mutual connections. Finding commonalities can create a stronger connection and make the networking process feel more like a conversation between colleagues than a sales pitch.

Step 4: Ask for Their Card and Offer Yours in Return

Once you’ve made a personal connection, it’s time to make a business one. It’s a good practice to request their card first, showing that you value their information. When you receive it, take a moment to look at it and read what’s on it.

When it’s your turn to share your card, do it purposefully. If you’re using a Doorway card, you’ll open your phone’s digital wallet and show your new contact the card which they can scan with their phone camera. This immediately saves your details to their phone app.

For a traditional card, hand it over with the text facing them, making it easy for them to read.

Step 5: Closing the Interaction

Don’t just hand over the card and walk away. Wrap up the interaction on a positive note. Thank them for their time, express your intent to follow up, or suggest a future meeting if appropriate. A pleasant farewell leaves a lasting impression.

With these steps, you can ensure that your business card – and your professional persona – is received as intended.

Following Up with Your New Contact

Here’s how you can effectively manage the post-networking phase.

Remembering Who You Talked To

Meeting multiple people in one networking event can be a bit of a blur. But each person you meet is a potential business opportunity, so keeping track of who’s who is crucial.

You can jot down notes to help you recall details of your conversation along with their name. You can also take voice notes if you have a quiet area to do so privately.

Keeping the Connection Alive

After the initial follow-up, keep the connection warm by interacting with their posts on social media, sharing useful information, or scheduling a coffee chat to explore business opportunities. This is where networking pays off—by turning a single meeting into a meaningful professional relationship.

Here’s a timeline you can consider for following up with new contacts when networking:

Remember, each contact is unique and requires a personalized approach. The key is to maintain regular contact while adding value and not appearing overly salesy. Adjust this timeline as necessary for each individual contact.

Frequently Asked Questions About Networking Using Traditional or Digital Business Cards

Still have questions?

Below we’ve addressed some of the most popular questions people have when it comes to networking with a business card.

How many business cards should I bring to a networking event?

While the answer can vary depending on the size of the event, a good rule of thumb is to always carry more business cards than you anticipate needing. If you’re attending a large event, consider taking at least 50 cards.

For smaller meetups, 20-30 cards might suffice. And if you have multiple events in the same week, always stock up.

However, the beauty of digital business cards is that you’ll never run out. Providers like Doorway ensure you’re always equipped, no matter how large the event All you need is one card.

Should I follow up with every person I give a business card to?

Following up is an essential part of networking, but it doesn’t mean you have to connect with everyone you meet. Use your discretion.

Gauge who could be a valuable connection or a potential client. Prioritize your follow-ups based on your goals and the potential value of the relationship.

How can I make my business cards stand out?

In a sea of business cards, standing out can give you a networking edge. With traditional cards, the quality, color, or texture of the cardstock can make a difference. A unique design, an impactful tagline, or an interesting visual element can also catch attention. However, ensure your card remains professional, considering your industry and audience while designing it.

For digital business cards, standing out involves a different approach. A well-designed, interactive digital card can set you apart. Doorway, for example, allows you to include links to your work, landing pages and socials, transforming your business card from a static entity into a dynamic presentation of your professional persona.

How can I ensure the recipient saves my digital business card?

With digital business cards, the question of how to ensure your contact information gets saved is vital. With Doorway, this concern is addressed head-on.

Each Doorway digital business card comes with a hardcoded QR code. When scanned, this QR code allows your contact details to be saved immediately and seamlessly directly to the recipient’s phone app.

This functionality ensures that your details are stored for future reference, ready to be accessed when a business need arises. You can rest easy knowing that your networking efforts won’t go unnoticed, and your contact details won’t get lost in the shuffle.

What role does design play in effective networking?

Design plays a pivotal role in effective networking. It’s not just about what information your business card holds, but also how it’s presented. A well-designed card can catch the eye, create a memorable impression, and even convey the essence of your brand or personal style.

In the realm of traditional business cards, design elements like color, layout, typography, and the use of space can all influence how your card is perceived. A sleek, minimalist design can convey professionalism, while a vibrant color scheme may showcase creativity. However, it’s essential to balance aesthetics with readability to ensure your key details are easily discernible.

Who is Doorway best for?

Doorway is a networking tool loved by B2Bs and forward-thinking enterprises. The integrations the platform has with HR tools, its SOCII security certification, SaaS model pricing, and focus on sustainability align perfectly to the needs and concerns of these business types.

If you’re interested in deploying Doorway in your business, get in touch here.

Introduction

Business card apps have become essential tools for professionals to network and exchange contact information quickly and efficiently. With a plethora of apps available on the market, it can be challenging to determine which ones are the best for your needs. In this blog, we will explore the 11 best business card apps for 2023.

From innovative features to user-friendly interfaces, these apps are designed to make networking easier and more efficient than ever before. So whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your career, these apps are sure to help you make lasting connections in the business world.

Summary

In today’s digital age, the need for digitization of business cards has become more important than ever before. Business card apps have emerged as essential tools for professionals to network and exchange their contact details and information quickly and efficiently. In this blog, we have compiled a list of the 11 best business card apps for 2023.

These apps come with a range of additional features too, from digitizing paper cards to creating personalized cards from scratch. Some of the key features of these apps include contact management, customization, and the ability to share digital cards in various formats. Overall, these business card apps offer convenience and efficiency in networking, making it easier for professionals to establish connections and expand their reach in the business world.

Choosing the Right Business Card App

When it comes to choosing a business card app, there are several important factors to consider. First and foremost, ease of use is essential. The app should have a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate and understand.

Additionally, the app’s features are critical in determining its suitability for your needs. Some apps offer basic features, such as digitizing paper cards, while others provide more advanced options, such as customized designs or integration with other apps. Compatibility with your mobile device and operating system is also a crucial consideration, as not all apps are available on all platforms.

Finally, it’s important to consider the virtual card app’s pricing model, as some are free, while others require a subscription or charge per use. Overall, carefully considering these criteria will help you choose the best business card app for your networking needs.

An app to replace my business card?

Digital business card apps are a modern solution for professionals seeking to streamline their networking efforts and manage contacts together. These apps allow users to create, share, and manage digital business cards, eliminating the need for physical cards and making it easier to exchange contact information quickly and efficiently.

One of the main benefits of using digital business card apps is the ability to customize and personalize your cards, adding a professional touch that can help make a lasting impression on new contacts. Additionally, digital cards are easily shareable and can be sent via email or text message, making them more accessible and convenient than traditional paper cards.

Moreover, these apps often come with contact management features, allowing former paper card users to organize and manage their contacts in one place, reducing the risk of losing important contact information. Overall, digital business card apps offer numerous benefits for professionals looking to enhance their networking capabilities and establish meaningful connections in the business world.

Key Features to Look for in a Digital Business Card App

When searching for a digital business card app, it’s essential to look for certain key features that will help you make the most of the app’s capabilities. Customizable digital card designs are a crucial feature, allowing users to personalize their cards with unique designs, colors, and fonts.

The app should also offer easy sharing options, allowing users to share their digital cards with contacts through various mediums, such as email or messaging apps. Compatibility with various devices is also important, as users may need to share their cards with contacts who use different devices or operating systems.

Additionally, analytics and tracking features can provide insights into how the virtual business card itself is being used, such as how many times it’s been viewed or shared, which can help users assess the effectiveness of their networking efforts. Overall, these key features can help make a digital business card app a valuable tool for professionals seeking to expand their networks and make meaningful connections in the business world.

Our top Digital Business Card Apps

After careful consideration and analysis, we have compiled a list of our top ten best digital business card apps for 2023.

1. Doorway

Doorway is widely regarded as a leader in the digital business card space, with a technology that resides in your Apple Wallet or Google Pay. While this is less of an app and more of a lifestyle, we included it as the best choice for seamless networking in collecting personal and business contacts. This streamlined system makes it the ideal business card solution for companies looking to promote their brand identity while scaling efficiently.

While Doorway’s pricing is tiered to reflect the needs of different corporations, the Professional Tier is the most popular option, starting at $150 per 300 business cards.

The benefits of using Doorway include not requiring internet, being geared towards B2B clients, SOC2 certification for data security, complete customization with professional graphics, a centralized admin account for easy updates, integration with HR software, easy distribution across your organization, and analytics to understand card use. Furthermore, it leaves a great impression on your clients.

Despite its strengths, Doorway may not be the best option for individual users who prefer print cards. However, for businesses that prioritize sustainability, efficiency, and brand identity, Doorway is an excellent choice.

2. Haystack

Haystack is another great digital business card app that offers a range of features, including customizable digital card designs, easy sharing options, and analytics and tracking capabilities. The app also allows users to add multimedia content to their cards, such as photos, videos, and social media links, making it a versatile and engaging networking tool.

One of the downsides of Haystack is that the free version of the app has limited features, such as a maximum of 10 digital cards and limited sharing options. However, the premium version, which costs $6.99/month or $69.99/year, offers unlimited digital cards, advanced analytics, and integration with other apps.

3. eBizCard

eBizCard is a digital business card company wherein users can create their very own custom digital cards. The platform is more eco-friendly than traditional paper cards, streamlining the process of managing contacts.

eBizCard has several advantages, including its ability to be shared instantly with anyone, anywhere. It also allows for customizable templates and multimedia elements such as videos and images, making digital cards more engaging.

However, some professionals may not recognize eBizCard as a credible business card in certain settings, which could be considered a potential disadvantage and harm your business reputation.

Looking to create a new business card?

If you’re looking to create a new business card, you may want to consider using a business card creation app. These apps allow users to design and print professional-quality business cards quickly and easily, without the need for graphic design skills or specialized software.

One of the main advantages of using these apps is that they offer a wide range of customization options, including different templates, fonts, colors, and images. This allows users to create a card that reflects their company name or unique brand identity and stands out from the competition.

Overall, using a business card creation app can help professionals create a memorable and effective networking tool that can help them make meaningful connections in the business world.

Key Features to Look for in a Business Card Creation App

When choosing a business card creation app, there are several key features that you should look for. First and foremost, a user-friendly interface is essential, as it allows users to design and create their virtual business cards more quickly and easily.

The app should also provide a variety of design templates and customization options, such as the ability to add logos, images, and other design elements. High-quality printing options are also important, as they ensure that the finished product looks professional and is durable.

Integration with social media and other platforms can be a useful feature, as it allows users to share their business card designs with their professional network and make meaningful connections. By looking for these key features in a business card creation app, professionals can create digital business cards as a high-quality networking tool that helps them stand out in a competitive business environment.

Top Business Card Creations Apps

There are many business card creation apps available on the market, each with its unique features and benefits. Here are three of the top business card creation apps to consider:

1. Doorway

Hello, us again!

Doorway is a top digital business card solution that uses Apple Wallet or Google Pay technology to share digital business cards. It’s ideal for companies seeking to promote their brand identity while scaling in the most effective way possible.

The Professional Tier, priced at $150 for 300 cards, is the most popular pricing option.

Benefits include no internet requirement, geared towards B2B clients, SOC2 certification for data security, complete customization with professional graphics, integration with HR software, easy distribution across the organization, and analytics to understand card use.

However, it may not be the best choice for individuals who prefer print cards.

2. Blinq

Blinq is a digital business card app that simplifies the process of creating and sharing professional contact information. Its user-friendly interface makes it easy to customize a digital business card with important details like job title, company name, and social media links.

Furthermore, the app allows users to share their business cards via email, text, or QR code, which can save time and facilitate networking. However, a potential drawback is that the app’s usefulness may be limited if not widely adopted, and there are other similar apps available in the market.

Overall, while Blinq can be a valuable tool for streamlining networking efforts, its success may depend on its level of adoption among users.

3. HiHello

HiHello is a digital business card app where users can create customized electronic business cards with their contact info. The app is highly versatile, allowing users to create different types of cards for personal, professional, and social networking purposes. HiHello also lets users add custom branding and company logos, making their cards stand out at any networking event.

Nevertheless, there are some potential downsides to using HiHello. Its limited market share may reduce its effectiveness in certain contexts. While the app has a free plan, some of its features require a paid plan, which may not be feasible for all users.

That being said, HiHello is still a handy app for people seeking to streamline their networking efforts and make a strong first impression.

It’s crucial to consider your business plan, specific needs, and preferences when selecting the right business card creation app for you since each app offers distinct features and benefits.

Where to start scanning all those collected business cards?

If you’re like most professionals, you’ve probably accumulated a stack of physical business cards over the years, making it challenging to manage and organize your contacts effectively. This is where business card scanning apps come in. These apps allow users to scan and digitize physical cards, making it easy to manage and organize contacts more efficiently.

One of the main advantages of using a business card scanning app is that it eliminates the need for manual data entry, saving users time and reducing the risk of errors. These business card scanner apps also often come with contact management features, allowing users to organize and categorize their contacts, add notes and tags, and integrate with other apps and platforms, such as CRM software.

Overall, business card scanning apps can help professionals streamline their networking efforts and ensure that they never lose an important new contact again.

Key Features to Look for in a Business Card Scanning App

While in the search for a business card scanning app, it’s important to look for specific key features that can help make the scanning process more accurate and efficient. Critical features include accurate and fast scanning, which ensures that the contact information is captured correctly and quickly.

Support for multiple languages is also crucial, especially if you frequently interact with international contacts. The app should also have integration with contact management systems, allowing users to easily import scanned contacts into their existing contact lists.

Finally, backup and synchronization options are important for ensuring that contact information is saved securely and can be accessed across different devices. By looking for these key features in a business card scanning app, professionals can ensure that they have a tool that can help them manage and organize their contacts more efficiently.

Our top Business Card Scanning Apps

Here are three of the top business card scanning apps on the market:

1. CamCard

CamCard is a popular business card scanning app that offers fast and accurate scanning of business cards. It allows you to store and organize your contacts, as well as share your digital business card.

CamCard has a free version with limited functionality, as well as a premium subscription starting at $5.99 per month. Pros include accurate and fast scanning, support for multiple languages, and integration with popular contact management systems.

Cons include limited functionality in the free version and some users have reported issues with the app crashing.

2. ScanBizCards

ScanBizCards is another popular business card scanning app that offers accurate scanning and easy contact management. It includes features such as automatic contact syncing, LinkedIn integration, and the ability to export contacts to Excel or Salesforce.

ScanBizCards offers a free trial, as well as a premium subscription starting at $2.99 per month. Pros include accurate and fast scanning, support for multiple languages, and robust integration options.

Cons include limited functionality in the free version and some users have reported issues with the accuracy of the OCR technology.

3. ABBYY Business Card Reader

ABBYY Business Card Reader is a powerful business card scanning app that offers accurate scanning and robust contact management features. It includes features such as automatic contact syncing, support for multiple languages, and the ability to export contacts to popular contact management systems.

While there is a free trial, premium subscriptions start at $9.99 per month. Pros include accurate and fast scanning, robust integration options, and a user-friendly interface.

Cons include a relatively high price point compared to other options and some users have reported issues with the accuracy of the OCR technology.

Overall, each of these business card scanning apps offers unique features and benefits, making it essential to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing the right business card scanner app for you.

Tips for Maximizing the Benefits of Your Chosen Business Card App

Here are a few tips and tricks to get the most out of your chosen business card scanner app. Firstly, make sure to keep your information up-to-date so that your contacts have the most current information when they need it. Take advantage of any customization options offered by the app to make your digital business card look unique and stand out.

When sharing your digital card, be strategic about who you share it with and consider sharing it at networking events or after meetings. If you’re using a business card scanning app, make sure to organize your digital contacts more effectively and back them up regularly to avoid losing important contacts.

By following these tips, you can effectively manage your contacts and maximize the benefits of your chosen business card app.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right digital business card solves your professional networking problems and enhances your capabilities. Whether you’re looking for a digital business card app, a business card scanning app, or a business card creation app, there are numerous options available with a range of features including custom pricing and capabilities to suit your needs.

By utilizing the right app, you can streamline your contact management and ensure that your information is always up-to-date and easily accessible. So, we encourage you to explore the featured apps and find the one that best suits your needs to take advantage of the benefits that digital networking has to offer.