A client contacted me this morning and asked me if he should have business cards printed special for a networking event he is attending this weekend. I recommended that he have JIST Cards printed instead.  I first learned about JIST Cards in 1998 through Author J. Michael Farr. JIST Cards are an excellent networking tool. They create a positive impression, they are short and clear, easy to pass along, they are memorable, and they present the essence of what a potential employer wants to know. Once more, they are original and can help you stand apart from the competition. It’s amazing, but most people are willing to set up an interview with just 30 seconds of information. You will still need a polished résumé for the all important interview.

I’ve seen JIST cards in a variety of creative formats from business-sized cards, cards printed on both sides, folded cards, different ink colors, fancy printed papers, gold embossed printing, and others. I’m big on uniformity though, so I always recommend the JIST Cards match your resume and stationary. Using same paper colors and textures, the same ink color, and similar design elements will tie your career documents together into a very professional looking presentation for hiring managers.

The Content of a Good JIST Card:

Your Name

Phone and Email Contact Information

Job Objective

Related Education & Training

Length of Experience

Skills & Accomplishments

Preferred Working Conditions

Good Worker Traits

While there are many new tools for today’s job seeker, networking is still the best way to find a new job. Join career-related associations, participate in community networking events, and network with friends, family members and professional colleagues. Don’t be afraid to ask for help in your job search!

Some of the best ways to use JIST Cards include, giving them to friends and family, using them as business cards, sending them to employers before interviews, enclosing them with thank-you notes after interviews or phone contacts, attaching them to resumes/applications, using them as a basis for a telephone presentation, and creating innovative ways to use them.

JIST Cards work best if you have hundreds of them in circulation, so once you have then, use them. Give them away freely because they will not help you get a job if they are sitting on your desk.

Written by Deanne Arnath, http://www.aresumewizard.com