Business Card Etiquette

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Business Card Etiquette

© Globalization Partners International. All rights reserved.http://blog.globalizationpartners.com/ 2
Surprisingly, mom is
not always right,
especially in the world
of networking.
Contrary to our mothers' constant reminder
to never talk to strangers, the art of
socializing and networking requires us to do
exactly the opposite!

In fact, the more strangers you share
information with, the more chances there are
for socializing which can lead to career or
business opportunities.

We may have been
taught not to speak to
strangers, but at the
end of the day a
profitable future awaits
if we make the right
connection, and isn't
that what makes most
moms happy?

Evolution of Business Cards
The etiquette for introducing yourself and
presenting a business card has been
around since 17th century
France. Historically, gentlemen presented
a card before meeting an acquaintance,
an aristocrat, royalty or even a relative.
This card was referred to as a visiting card.
This gesture became the tradition of most households in that era. It was
labeled the most sophisticated and highest type of gesture and was expected
in upper and middle class society.
Note: Image Credit

While 17th century France has been credited with introducing
this custom, China is believed to have practiced the use of
visiting cards two centuries earlier, as Meishi.
In 15th century China, Meishi was distributed among people of
a kingdom to announce the arrival of royalty.
In the 20th century, the use of these cards revolutionized and
are now being used as a means of personal and business
introductions. In today's lingo, these cards are known as
business cards.

Presenting the Card
Traditionally, social interactions were limited to elite and well-
mannered individuals. However, as time passed the users of
business cards broadened.
Despite the numbers of business cards being printed every day,
having a card is not enough, the manner in which you introduce
yourself and present your card is an important element.
Note: Image Credit

That rings true for cultures and manners around the
world. Business cards are an extension of one's identity,
and cards should be presented in a way that reflects
that.
Standards and rituals were created for exchanging
cards. These protocols are essential, as this modern
society requires an adaptive nature to these diversities.

Below is a list of some cultural practices regarding
business cards.
Japanese Culture
• Bow before handing the business card as a sign of
respect
• Never write anything on the card
• At meetings, make sure business cards are placed on
the table in the order people are seated

Chinese Culture
• Put a Chinese translation of your information on the
back of your card as appreciation of the culture
• Never write anything on the card
Arab Culture
• Hand out business cards using the right hand or with
both hands

Indian (India) Culture
• Put university degrees and honors on business cards
to display achievements
American Culture
• No strict rituals are being followed in this culture

These cultures have their own
customs, but there is a must do list
of owning and using business cards
across all cultures.

• Business cards must be clean and precise
• Never take a business card from a wallet, use a card case
for a more professional look
• Never put your business cards in your back pocket
• Hold the corner of the business card and make sure that
company information and logos are not covered
• Make sure the business card is facing the recipient so
he/she will be able to easily read it
• When receiving a business card, hold it with both hands
and review the information on it before you put it away

Lasting Impression
What we put on our business cards say who we are, thus self-
expression is a highly suggested theme when making a business
card. A business card with personality is a business card worth
keeping. Having a stand out business card increases your
chances of being noticed and remembered.
Printing companies now design various templates to make cards
more appealing. Acceptable card shapes have changed from
rectangular to combinations of shapes and textures. Business
cards have evolved and definitely reflect the modern
generations.

Even though we strive for beauty and simplicity, certain
facts must be considered and the content of a business
card needs to be controlled. Never put a misleading
statement on your business card. The digital
generation has made it acceptable to include additional
information including email addresses, blog sites and
social media accounts, like Twitter, Facebook and
LinkedIn on business cards.

Conclusion
Business cards will continue to evolve over time, but
the reason for their existence will stay the same.
Business cards are the only formal way of getting to
know a stranger. The manner and customs surrounding
this card may be a small representation of the owner,
but once it's delivered correctly the possibilities for
career advancement and business opportunities
increase rapidly.

Translation and Localization Resources
You may gain further insights into global e-business, global SEO and website translation and
country specific cultural facts and related topics by reviewing some previous blogs written by
Globalization Partners:
Website Translation Tips and Best Practices by Country Series
Language Translation Resources
Translation Portal and Localization Tools
10 Tips for Website Localization
Global SEO: 4 Top Factors
Social Media Localization
Doing Business via the WWW in China
Creating Culturally Customized Content for Website Translation
Please feel free to contact GPI at info@globalizationpartners.com with any questions about our
language and technology services. Also let us know if you have any interesting blog topics you
would like us to cover in our future blogs. You may request a complimentary Translation
Quote for your projects as well.

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