A really important statement for most of us is our business card. There is a certain protocol or “business card etiquette” that we need to be aware of in today’s world. The business card is a snapshot of who we are and what we represent. Your business card and how to handle it is a very personal part of executive communication.
A well-done and properly presented business card can make a tremendous impression.
Business Card Etiquette in the US
- Keep your cards clean. Never hand out a dirty worn out business card. I like to use a business card holder. More on this later in the post.
- Wait for the right moment to ask for or pass along your card. Never force your card on anyone. When I meet someone that I would like to stay in touch with, I simply ask for their card. In return, I ask “May I give you my card”? If you are a new hire, do not force your card on a senior executive. Wait until he or she asks for it.
- Don’t scatter your cards about on a table or pass along freely. I was at a networking lunch and while the keynote speaker was in the middle of her presentation, someone sitting across from me starts fumbling in her handbag, finds a stack of her business cards and starts passing them around to all eight of us at the table. Needless to say, this is not appropriate.
- Learn to be selective about the people to whom you give your card. If you meet someone you are interested in getting to know, make it a private exchange.
- When you are receiving a business card, quickly read it over and ask a question or comment about something on the card. This shows you are interested. This is a sign of respect as well.
- When handing your card to someone, always present it face up and turned so the person receiving it can read it. Hand it over with both hands if possible.
- In the US it is acceptable to write on a business card. Let’s say someone requests that you contact them on their cell number instead of the number listed on the card. To keep everything organized, write it on the back of the card. I always like to ask before writing on their card. Again, this is a sign of respect.
- Always have your business card on hand even at social events. You never know when you are going to meet someone.
- Never discard a business card in front of someone or while you are still at the event. This is rude. Wait until you get home to throw out cards you do not need.
Business Card Cases
A place to keep your business cards is a must. No, you don’t want them to be loose in the bottom of your tote or laptop bag. You don’t want to reach for your overstuffed wallet searching for your cards behind your cash at a business conference. Here are a few choices for business card holders.
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