A few weeks ago, I was speaking with Chris Brogan about PodCamp. Steve Garfield initially connected me to Chris after I added my name to the PodCamp roster. It took a week or so for us to connect, but I am glad we did. Chris has the excitement I love to see in people - the stuff you just can’t buy.

Towards the end of the conversation, I mentioned that I was planning on tossing my card into the sponsorship hat since we fully believe in and support the podcasting community. At that moment, something crossed my mind. On the Wiki, Chris mentioned that everyone should bring their business cards with them so they could network. I’m no stranger to networking, as most who’ve met me know. What I realized is that despite that warning from Chris, most people still would forget or not make arrangements.

That’s when I had my Eureka! moment. As I told Chris, SocialRoots is in the business of helping social media creators build their own businesses. My idea was simple: why don’t we sponsor business cards for those folks. After all, your business card is the real-world gateway to your business, right? After a bit of research into how I might pull this off (I’ve had some experience designing these sorts of things before and it’s not fun), I came up with what I hope will be a workable solution - but everything’s a prototype until it’s not.

So the arrangement is simple. I’ve designed 4 different business card blanks. They’re bright, happy, and leave enough space for a clear label that will hold 3 lines of text (Your Name, Your URL, Your E-mail or Phone). 4000 blanks arrived at Chris’ house - along with a laser printer since I don’t own a printer that works. Ironically enough, I got them printed at Vistaprint - the originators of this sponsored business card concept if I ever knew of one. The labels are tucked away in my bag here so hopefully everything makes it there intact.

Throughout Podcamp, I’ll be joyfully waiting for anyone that is missing their own business card. Once you’ve told me what you want on your card, I’ll run you some labels and you can choose whichever combination of the blanks you want to use. Stick em on and you’re good to go. I just hope that I don’t run out.. the list grew to 300+ registrants. Looks like 10 cards per person per visit.

BTW, the back of the cards contain room for notes and our cute little mascot - reminding you that we love you.

If you’ve got a conference coming up that’s up our alley - let us know, maybe we’ll tug all the gear out to your event too.

Which one do you like? My votes on pink!