Preparing for BlizzCon: Minicards -- social networking in person
BlizzCon approaches! Preparing for BlizzCon is your regular source for tips on how best to prepare for Blizzard's gaming extravaganza.
The last time I went to BlizzCon was two years ago and I was woefully unprepared. I regretted multiple times that I didn't have some form of business card with me. But this year I am ready if Tommy Tallarico approaches the WoW.com writers again asking for cards. Squeeeeeeee!
It was particularly silly of me to not bring any sort of card, considering I went there to work. But even if you are only going to play, a minicard or the like is a very good idea. I used moo.com because they have a good reputation and a nice interface with flickr.
Why should you get a minicard?
It's great for promoting your blog or other online product/service if you have one. (Captain Obvious is tapping his foot.)
Business cards are often used as entries for contests or other opportunities at events like this.
Networking, networking, networking. Cards as introductions and networking tools have been used for centuries. If you meet someone you would like to have contact with again, for whatever reason, having a card to hand him or her still really facilitates this.
What should you have on it?
Your name: Real name, in-game name, blog persona -- it's your preference.
An email address: Set up a separate email specifically for this card or use one that you check regularly. I recommend that it be permanent and belong only to you. Don't use the same address that Blizzard has for you, however.
Any other online contact info you want to promote: Guild/server names, blog address, Twitter, Facebook, etc.
If you have a business with a number that you want to get around, you of course already have business cards and know what to do with them. Otherwise, do not print any personal info other than the above on your card. Your phone number, physical address, kids' names, etc. can all be used to steal your identity or otherwise con you via social engineering.
It usually takes two weeks to print and ship your cards using standard shipping methods, so getting them ordered any time this month will do. The sooner you get them, however, the larger the window you have for dealing with the unexpected.
BlizzCon 2009 is coming up on August 21st and 22nd! We've got all the latest news and information. At BlizzCon, you can play the latest games, meet your guildmates, and ask the developers your questions. Plus, there are some great looking costumes.
