Business Card Etiquette

As with other areas of the business world there is etiquette that should be followed with the distribution of your business cards and when accepting cards from other people. One of the biggest rules of business card etiquette is to never throw another person’s business card in the trash right after they hand it to you. Hold onto their card for at least a few minutes or at least until they are out of sight. By throwing out their card you are showing their business disrespect, especially after they just asked you for your business card.

Another rule of business card etiquette is to always ask for a person’s business card if they ask for yours. Never go into a conversation thinking that you will only be handing another person your business card and not getting one in return. Always ask for another person’s business card if they ask you for yours.

Other business card etiquette includes reading the business card of another person as soon as it is handed to you. Don’t just toss the business card in your wallet. Read it, study it, and make others feel good about their business cards.

When traveling abroad, make sure you translate your business card on the blank side of the card so people of a different language can understand your business’ information. Also, business cards are typically handed out at either the beginning of a meeting or at the end of a meeting. Never start handing out your business card in the middle of a meeting; which can be extremely disruptive.

Share and Enjoy: