How cheap is a box of 200 business cards? Pretty cheap. Yet giving each of your staff members this simple, standard business tool can provide some nice benefits for your practice.

• Increased referrals. Everyone has a circle of friends and contacts – each staff member will pass his or her card out to many new people.
• At social occasions, a common topic of conversation is “where do you work?” When the card comes out – your practice gets talked about and looks impressive.
• Enhanced staff self-image. Staff members will have more pride and confidence in their job when they see their name and title on a card. It makes it official and important.
• Improved patient service. Your staff can hand their card out to patients they are working with. After teaching contact lens insertion and removal, my technician says, “Here’s my card, if you have any questions or problems, give me a call.” After a frame adjustment, the optician can do the same.
• Enhanced practice image. The card will encourage everyone to use titles and real names. Having a professional work for you – rather than “the gal at the front desk” makes your office look better. Patients accept the work of your assistants better when they see their name and title on a card.

• Use some color.
• Use quality card stock and printing – this is a tangible statement about your practice.
• Get a professionally designed logo. It will last forever – and everyone can always spot a homemade one.
• Use job titles that are effective –optometric technician is good, but how about: managed care coordinator, laser vision coordinator, eyewear fashion specialist, patient service representative, contact lens hygienist, lab technician?
• Don’t make it crowded.