Nigerian Communications Commission 2024 statistics indicate that around 55% of internet users face connectivity problems and about 65% experience unreliable power supply (World Bank, 2024). Additionally, technological barriers persist, with approximately 60% of individuals using outdated devices, and 47% lacking essential digital skills (ITU, 2024).
This does not include the economic constraints that further limit access to necessary resources, with 32% of mobile users reporting frequent disconnections (NBS, 2024).
Despite these challenges, Kade Keyo has identified opportunities for effective networking through professional associations, connections, digital platforms, and initiatives through the “open house initiative” to build a formidable community and ecosystem of professionals where values are offered and needs are met.
In this light, he mentioned that banks, which are often not taken seriously, are not only there to give you a grant but are also businesses themselves.
Demystifying prevailing misconceptions surrounding the banking system in Nigeria, he said, “The bank is there to do business with you; the bank is your friend. They are there to do business with you. So, for those listening online and for us here live, we need to understand this in the light of partnership. The same applies to venture capitalists and angel investors.”
Speaking on the efficacy of business cards and virtual cards for entrepreneurs, and professionals alike, Olayiwola Jaiyeola-Joseph, the co-founder of Buntu and a serial entrepreneur, noted that a business card is an enabler; if he meets someone and wants to do business with them, it facilitates the exchange of information. However, he added that it does not replace the core interest in business transactions. “I think it’s more personal to get contact information; I feel it connects professionals more than a business card would.”
When airing his view, Tanho Attah, the convener, added that regarding business or virtual cards, “We need to acknowledge that we live in a technologically empowered environment. I don’t know how other professionals get deals, but personally, mine have often come through referrals and networking. Most of the time, I receive calls from potential clients who inform me that they reached out to me through my business card. I always take time to go through the business cards I receive and follow them up as needed.”
However, Jason, a sales professional with Pharmadeko, remarked, “A business card is an enabler; for instance, if you meet someone and want to do business with them, it will facilitate the exchange of information. But it doesn’t replace the core interest in the actual business transactions themselves. I think there are a lot of pros and cons regarding the subject matter, but for me, it’s more personal when I collect a client or professional contact. It gives me an understanding that they are interested in not just knowing my brand but in doing business with me.”
On the other hand, Rasheed Ajibola of Mosoptions Consulting noted that for proper documentation and reference, it is preferable and advisable for business professionals to have, exchange, and keep business cards. “The dynamics of business relationships have changed,” said Eloho Tanho-Attah, CEO of SCHIHP Technologies.
But for Donatus, it is better to have a professional business card and exchange it with prospective clients and business associates when the occasion demands. “Seeing a business card reminds and connects people easily, bringing to mind the services offered. Additionally, one may not be taken seriously in some instances without a business card. It makes a good impression. Although we are in an era of disruption and people now use virtual cards, which I also believe are better because, at times, the hard copy business card may not be readily available.”
Other shades of opinions also indicated that business cards triggered the conversation because when the card is requested it presupposes a conversation starter, especially a virtual card which is relatively new. Although this must be combined with the fact that a good service is being offered to make prospective clients remember one service.”
Reacting, the Chief Executive Officer of Studio Universal, cautioned that not everyone is digitally adept, pointing out that many top business personalities do not use phones connected to the internet.
Among other points, the convener hinted that professionals need to ask themselves if their businesses are succeeding enough without business cards or professional cards. The answer to this should determine the direction to take. Additionally, he strongly recommends that businesses and professionals should have business cards, as it is better “to run out of them than to not have them at all.” Tanho Attah said.
The OPEN HOUSE is an entrepreneurs and business professionals networking event powered by KADE KEYO and her partners focused on building a stronger network between all members of the business community; entrepreneurs, enterprises, investors, partners, customers and clients alike. The Inaugural event was held at CAFE ONE Ikeja and powered in partnership with TECH ECONOMY, SCHIHP TECHNOLOGIES, CAFE ONE and STUDIO 10N
