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Tilted Cat Head
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Business Card Etiquette
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When doing business in an Islamic country -- and many parts of Africa and Asia -- you should always offer a business card with your right hand: The left is considered unclean.
That's just one of the many rules of handling business cards around the world. When traveling, take time to study the proper etiquette of business cards, lest you are considered a boorish American.
Business cards play a very important role in trade. They serve as a means of introduction and as a way to ensure that your acquaintance can at a glance glean -- and later refer to -- your professional details. Given the fact that most companies spend a great deal of time and money designing their business cards, it makes sense to treat them as an effective business tool.
Take your time while handing your card to people. It is impossible to convey respect if you simply toss your card at someone -- you will come across as being brash and rude. In many countries, it is considered an insult for a guest to be the first to proffer a business card.
If at all possible, have your card translated into the local language. One side of the card should be in English and the opposite side in the local language. This conveys that you are considerate, polite and most importantly, that you are aware of -- and sensitive to -- the nuances of conducting business internationally.
In Japan, presenting a card with two hands conveys respect. When using both hands, hold your card by the two upper corners.
Make sure you are carrying more cards than you will need. In some countries, you will need two for each one-to-one visit, as it is customary for the secretary to keep one card. Ideally, you should carry your business cards in a small, discreet case. If you don't have a card case with you, put your cards in a front or side pocket.
When you receive a business card from someone else, pause and take time to read it. Use the opportunity to repeat the person's name out loud, especially if it is in a language you're not familiar with -- you will be corrected if your pronunciation is off the mark.
While it is acceptable for you to write on your own card, never write on someone else's business card -- it shows a lack of respect for the owner of the card.
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Business Card Etiquette
By: Neil Payne
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When doing business abroad it is important to understand the local culture. Culture includes areas such as a country's norms, values, behaviours, food, architecture, fashion and art. However, one area of culture that is important for the international business person is etiquette.
Understanding business etiquette allows you to feel comfortable in your dealings with foreign friends, colleagues, customers or clients. Knowing what to do and say in the right places will help build trust and open lines of communication.
One aspect of etiquette that is of great importance internationally is the exchanging of business cards.
Unlike in North America or Europe where the business card has little meaning other than a convenient form of capturing essential personal details, in other parts of the world the business card has very different meanings.
For example, in Japan the business card is viewed as a representation of the owner. Therefore proper business etiquette demands one treats the business card with respect and honour.
Below we have provided you with a few examples of international business card exchange etiquette that may help you on your business trips abroad.
General Business Card Etiquette Tips
Business cards are an internationally recognised means of presenting personal contact details, so ensure you have a plentiful supply.
Demonstrating good business etiquette is merely a means of presenting yourself as best you can. Failure to adhere to foreign business etiquette does not always have disastrous consequences.
When travelling abroad for business it is advisable to have one side of your business card translated into the appropriate language.
Business cards are generally exchanged at the beginning of or at the end of an initial meeting.
Good business etiquette requires you present the card so the recipient's language is face up.
Make a point of studying any business card, commenting on it and clarifying information before putting it away.
Business Card Etiquette in China
Have one side of your business card translated into Chinese using simplified Chinese characters that are printed in gold ink since gold is an auspicious colour.
Ensure the translation is carried out into the appropriate Chinese dialect, i.e. Cantonese or Mandarin.
Your business card should include your title. If your company is the oldest or largest in your country, that fact should be highlighted on your card.
Hold the card in both hands when offering it.
Never write on someone's card unless so directed.
Business Card Etiquette in India
If you have a university degree or any honour, put it on your business card.
Always use the right hand to give and receive business cards.
Business cards need not be translated into Hindi as English is widely spoken within the business community.
Business Card Etiquette in Japan
Business cards are exchanged with great ceremony.
Invest in quality cards.
Always keep your business cards in pristine condition.
Treat the business card you receive as you would the person.
Make sure your business card includes your title. The Japanese place emphasis on status and hierarchy.
Business cards are always received with two hands but can be given with only one.
During a meeting, place the business cards on the table in front of you in the order people are seated.
When the meeting is over, put the business cards in a business card case or a portfolio.
Business Card Etiquette in the UK
Business card etiquette is relaxed in the UK and involves little ceremony.
It is not considered bad etiquette to keep cards in a pocket.
Business cards should be kept clean and presentable.
Do not feel obliged to hand out a business card to everyone you meet as it is not expected
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Last edited by Cynthetiq; 02-15-2005 at 07:12 AM..
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