Business Card Etiquettes

Etiquettes to be followed while presenting your business card:

Business cards are an internationally recognized means of presenting personal contact details, so ensure you have a plentiful supply.
When traveling 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.
Make a point of studying any business card, commenting on it and clarifying information before putting it away.
If you work for a mid-sized to large company or organization, the style and format of the business card will have been decided for you.
If you have your own company or organization, then keep the business card traditional in size and shape. Have them printed with all your key contact information in additional to you company or organization's name, logo and tag line.
Unless you are going swimming or otherwise actively engagement in sports, carry your business cards. Do no limit carrying them to work days, the office or business functions. Some of the best opportunities for business networking are at the least likely events or times.
Some people carry business cards loose in their pockets or their purse. The best thing to carry them in is a business card case. These are available in metal and leather.

Some people whip out their business card every time they meet someone at work or at a work related function. The best times to offer your business card are:-

When someone asks for your card.
When you ask someone for their business card.
At the END of a meeting with a client or potential client before they leave.
If someone asks for your contact information (business or otherwise).
At the end of an air flight if you have talked with the person sitting next to you.
If you dine next to someone outside of your company at a professional or networking function (business-related), you may tell them that it was enjoyable talking with them and offer them your card as you shake hand and leave.

Business Card 'Don'ts'

Don't give your business card to people who work with you. If you are that unmemorable you may need a professional coach.
Don't give your business card to people at a reception or networking function unless they ask for yours or your contact information.
Don't drop them in bowls for raffles as you will only be contacted by someone trying to sell you something.
Don't give them to others to hand-out for you.
Don't leave them on bulletin boards or in stacks at any place other than your own desk - and only then if you meet face-to-face with customers or clients.
Don't hand them out to anyone at a church service (social functions are acceptable) or at funerals.

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.