Business cards can be traced back to the 1600’s in France during the reign of Louis XIV. They were first known as visiting cards and individuals wrote promissory notes and messages on blank cards. They later evolved into a business tool and a way for merchants to market their wares. Today business cards are still a tool of the trade and a way to leave an impression with a new personal or professional acquaintance.

If you work for an established organization chances are you utilize the business card as a networking tool with regularity. I highly recommend that those looking for employment should create personal business cards, also known as networking cards to ramp up the effectiveness of the professional relationship building process. This leave-behind tool can be what helps someone remember you and it provides your contact information which is critical in the follow-up process.

Job seekers should create a simple card with full name, cell phone, and email. If you have a niche market career path (lawyer, chef, accountant, etc.) then you can also include a title. Advanced degrees should be included if applicable to the career field you are pursuing. You should carry your cards everywhere you go and be ready to share them generously with new contacts.

There is no need to spend a lot on business cards. Vista Print has some very reasonable cards in a variety of styles or you can design your own using a Microsoft Word template. Have your template copied or printed onto cardstock and laser cut at your local copy store and you’ll be good to go. This way you can print small quantities at a time.

After I meet someone new, I write notes on the back of their business card to help me remember our interaction. Even in the technology driven world of social media, the business card is an effective tool that will never be obsolete. Exchanging cards in person leads to conversation and gives you an opportunity to showcase your personal brand and value-add. Business cards are the currency used in building new relationships – make sure you are packing this all important tool.

These unstable economic times make it especially tough for first time job seekers that are beginning to forge their career paths. It’s also tough for seasoned professionals that find themselves out of work with rising unemployment rates.

The truth is, in this economic climate sometimes you must take a job that won’t help you move up the rungs of your personal career ladder. In difficult times it’s more common than not for job seekers to take opportunities outside of their field, below their pay grade, and far removed from their dream job classification. Student loans, credit card debt, and the general cost of living cannot be put on hold when you are unemployed but that not-so-perfect job can be a stop gap measure to make ends meet – and that’s ok.

These are very emotional times for job seekers and career changers. I have seen many clients and students wrestling with depression and a roller coaster of highs and lows. Be sure to tap into your personal and professional resource group and find the support system you need. Give yourself permission to take the job that will help you stay afloat financially right now but don’t lose sight of your goals and aspirations. This bad economy is a moment in time and it too shall pass.

Landing your dream job is a journey. If you feel stuck in a position now without hope of getting out, remember that you should always be strategizing about ways to move forward. Continue to develop your network and be your own best advocate by showcasing your personal brand and value add to all those who will listen. The economy is also the perfect excuse for a future employer who questions an entry on your resume. You can easily showcase your resilience, ability to deal with adversity and change by explaining why you took a job that was outside of your field or level of experience. Employers know the realities of this economy too and they will applaud you for staying in the game.

Q: I will soon be returning to work after a 5 month maternity leave. I want to maintain my current position in the company and career path but I’d like to negotiate a four day work week or something like that. Since I have an infant at home, it’s difficult to “work” at home.  I’m willing to take a pay cut but need some advice in how to approach this topic with my boss. I want to make sure I ask for enough so I create a good work-life balance but yet not jeopardize my career.

A: It will be quite an adjustment getting back to work, dealing with childcare, and acclimating to your work schedule. The re-entry may be overwhelming at first so give it at least a week back at work before you ask your boss for any kind of adjustment. Don’t negotiate from home before you even get back to the office!

Once you have re-established to your boss and colleagues how valuable you are to the organization, you can begin to negotiate. Every organization is different so you will need to determine if there are others in the office with flexible schedules. If there is a precedent for this kind of flexibility then your negotiation will be much easier. Check with Human Resources to find out what the existing policies are so you can structure your proposal within these parameters.

Next, come up with a plan (in writing) that lists your ideal situation – perhaps that 4 day work week and a slightly adjusted salary for a test period. Have contingency strategies if the initial plan is not well received or approved but take the driver’s seat and articulate what you need to get the most out of your negotiation. You should help your boss understand that your long term plan is to grow your career with the company and this adjustment will empower you to serve in the best way possible.

The key is to be confident and well prepared when you are making your negotiation pitch. Never apologize for your request. Be clear in demonstrating the unique value you bring to the organization, your enthusiasm for the company, and your intent to deliver on the job with this new, flexible arrangement.

One of my favorite resources is the book: A Woman’s Guide to Successful Negotiating by Lee E. Miller and Jessica Miller. Do check it out for some terrific negotiating strategies. Men have been negotiating for generations – it’s wonderful that you are an empowered woman ready to ask for what you want in the workplace. Cheers to you!