The Culture of Exchanging Business Cards

As important as one’s attire and presentation is to any business interaction, the exchange of business cards is just as important and far from routine, particularly when interacting with clients and colleagues of other cultures. The business card after all represents you long after the physical meeting has taken place and is integral to the impression that you make. Regardless of culture, every business card should be clean and free of dog ears or creases. You are encouraged to carry your cards in a brass card case as leather cases may offend clients who practice the Hindu religion where the cow is sacred. The print should be large enough that the reader should not have to squint, and obviously must reflect your name, company, title and contact details.A business card often reflects one’s status and usually marks the beginning of a business relationship. In a few countries, the exchange of business cards is somewhat of a ritual. In Japan for example, the card is handed with both hands, the words facing the client who in turn should receive it with both hands and read over carefully, sometimes aloud. But again, regardless of culture, it is essential that you take a moment to look over a person’s business card once handed to you. This shows your interest in the person and transaction, helps to reinforce his or her name, and may provide an opportunity for you to take notice of something on their card, such as a design, location or name that you can use as a further ice-breaker.