…And How It Can Instantly Elevate Your Credibility as a Commercial Finance Consultant
For new and even seasoned factoring brokers, it’s easy to overlook the hidden power of something as basic as a business card. But make no mistake—when used strategically, your card can be more than just contact information. It can be a conversation starter, a positioning tool, and even a subtle method of marketing your expertise.
One powerful and often overlooked “Pro Tip” is this:
Always list “Forfaiting” as one of the products you offer.
Yes, forfaiting. Even if you rarely encounter a client that truly needs this specialized form of export financing, the word itself carries weight. Why? Because almost no one—especially local bankers and business owners—has ever heard of it.
Why This Works So Well
When someone sees “forfaiting” on your business card, it sparks curiosity. It invites the inevitable question:
“What is forfaiting?”
And that’s your perfect opening. You now have an opportunity to:
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Demonstrate your expertise
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Position yourself as a global finance professional
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Educate your contact on the differences between factoring, forfaiting, and export finance
In the U.S., forfaiting is rarely discussed in small business circles. It typically relates to large international shipments or capital equipment exports that are not fully insured by EXIM Bank or private insurers. These are often transactions where the exporter discounts a medium-term receivable (such as a promissory note or bill of exchange) with a guarantee from a foreign bank.
While your explanation will be brief, it naturally leads to:
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A comparison between factoring vs. forfaiting
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A quick discussion of export factoring
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A demonstration of how you understand international trade finance, even if your client doesn’t need it—yet
And best of all, you’ve just shown a prospective client—or more importantly, a bank lending officer—that you’re more than just another factoring broker. You’re a true Commercial Finance Consultant with knowledge that goes far beyond the basics.
Positioning Through Education
The real power here isn’t in how often you’ll place a forfaiting deal. The power lies in what the term forfaiting represents to the person reading your card:
- Global awareness
- High-level training
- Deep product knowledge
- And a serious commitment to your profession
Most bank officers, CPAs, and even SBA advisors won’t be familiar with the mechanics of forfaiting. And by educating them—even briefly—you differentiate yourself from every other local finance “broker” trying to drop off a flyer.
Where to Learn About Forfaiting
At the IACFB Academy, we understand the importance of standing out. That’s why we’ve included a module on Forfaiting and Export Finance as part of our advanced training. Whether you’re just getting started or looking to round out your expertise, these lessons help you gain confidence in a subject few in the U.S. commercial finance space truly understand.
In today’s market, knowing more means earning more. And even the smallest details—like a single word on your business card—can make a big difference in how you’re perceived.
Final Thought…Don’t Dismiss Forfaiting
Don’t just list the usual suspects like Factoring, A/R Finance, and SBA Loans.
Add “Forfaiting” to your card and be ready with a simple answer when they ask. It’s not just a conversation starter—it’s a credibility builder. And in a consultative profession, that makes all the difference.