In light of this digital age, people are asking “Should I still have a business card?” The changes in new media have people using digital business cards and connecting through wireless phone applications, but there many reasons to still use business cards to exchange information.

I went to an event last week and as I networked, I pulled out my business card and suggested we get in touch in the future. Many people gladly exchanged cards with me but I got a couple blank stares followed by “I don’t use business cards anymore. Let’s just bump iPhones to exchange info.” This got me thinking about the use of business cards and why I won’t be putting mine away any time soon.

Here are 3 reasons you still need your business cards:

Compatibility – Many tech savvy individuals have stopped carrying business cards and exchange their information digitally. However, in the non tech world, business cards are still widely used. You don’t want to miss those valuable connections or alienate individuals who have not made the full move towards digital communications.

First Impression – Business card design and layout are always an easy way to make a good first and lasting impression. The look and feel of your card will determine how people view you and if they will remember you in the future. Similar to how you would want to dress nicely for a business meeting, it is vital for your business card to reflect who you are and what you do in the proper way.

Reinforcement/Findability - When someone goes back to their office and empties their pockets to find your business card, it is at that moment when they decide whether to throw it in the trash bin or connect with you further.  A business card with pertinant information about your business will allow your connections to reach out to you through the most viable communications channel. I have my social media links on my business card so that if someone wants to connect with me on LinkedIn or another social network, they have the direct URL to find me.

There is no doubt that the use of digital communication channels is a vital component of the way people do business these days. However, it is important to keep in mind that these digital platforms work well as a complement to collateral materials. I received some great feedback from people on Twitter when I asked the question “Do you find business cards useful in this digital age?” As @ErlichComm simply put it “As we dive deeper into the digital age, we gain more appreciation for older forms of communication, i.e. snail mail v. e-mail.” I couldn’t agree more.

However, to keep with the times I suggest downloading the iphone Bump or Blackberry ScanLife app to your phone in case you run into someone who gives you that dreadful ”look.” Other useful sites to connect digitally are dooid and Poken.