Dear Readers: As conferences, networking events and luncheons are back in full force, you may wonder how you can make a memorable introduction to exchange contact information. The question usually emerges, especially if you don’t have business cards for your current role, do you really need one?

The answer is not always. As you have a meaningful conversation and want to exchange information to stay in touch, it’s not uncommon to share social handles and follow each other on the spot, even tagging them in photos as well. Some people have QR codes on their business cards or phone so they can show it to the other person who can scan the code and then link to their social handles. We’re not limited to handing hard copy business cards to each other, especially at a large event when you meet a lot of people, and your card can get lost among a sea of cards in the bottom of their purse, laptop case, etc.

That said, it doesn’t hurt to exchange information and also have a memorable card including your photo, embossed printing, memorable logo or something that stands out. Depending on the event, you may be able to stand out this way. If you have a card and they don’t, offer to give them yours but exchange information so you have their info as well.

Plus, making a memorable connection to follow up further doesn’t mean exchanging information, card or not, and that’s it. That’s the first point of contact similar to how a resume doesn’t land you the job, but opens the door to your first interview. It’s all about the follow up.

For instance, if you follow each other on social media, be intentional about building dialogue and then message to have conversations in real time. Sometimes, even by following each other or having the new person’s number in your phone, it may be easy to move on with your day. Create systems, such as an online calendar, to reach out to stay in touch and build a professional relationship.

Brooks E. Scott, executive coach and interpersonal communications expert of Merging Path Coaching, agrees. Whether or not you need a card, he said, depends on “whether your backend systems or process for the next point of contact are in order. There are dozens of electronic methods for collecting contacts in person, but do you follow up afterward? Your business card falling into the depths of someone’s handbag is just as deep a hole as the saved number, single text message exchange, or LinkedIn connection between two people who just met. What matters more is what you do after you meet that person.”

If you do choose the business card path, Scott said, it’s better to be simple and direct. “Try exchanging some typical contact information with a quick phrase about what you do. Do you really need to have your phone number on there when you know they are more likely to email you instead? People aren’t going to remember you by your name, but they’re more likely to remember you by a description of what you do.”

Vicki Salemi is a career expert for Monster, an author, a speaker and consultant, TV commentator and former corporate recruiter. /Tribune News Service