Business Card Etiquette

                                                                                         

Believe it or not, there are do's and don’ts in something as simple as the exchange of print business cards. Indeed, there are protocols and etiquettes associated with the exchange of cards. Read on and know whether you have committed a social faux pas when handing out your cards, whether it’s paper or plastic business cards.

Never give a crumpled and dirty business card. Your business card says more things about you than you can imagine. A dirty or crumpled card gives the impression of an unorganized, unprofessional person. So if your last card looks like it needs washing and ironing, better keep it because it might do more harm than good. Alternatively, you can try plastic business cards to ensure that your cards are protected from dirt and other damaging elements. This new way to print business cards makes your collateral more durable. Consider plastic business cards if you are in the construction business or some job that exposes you to the elements.

Never force someone to accept your card. You would not know if a person does not have any interest in your card because he or she is being polite. But the moment you leave, your custom business card, it will definitely find its way to the bin. Timing is key here. You have to wait for the right moment to give your card. Engage your prospect in a casual conversation that will lead to what you do for a living or the type of business you are in. Always introduce your business as an aside to make your conversations more genuine.

Never keep the print business cards in your pocket immediately after receiving it. The trick here is to scan it first before you put it in your breast pocket or even in your handbag. You can even go a bit further by asking questions about the business while scanning it. People and companies spent their time and resources to print business cards and it would be polite and respectful to show them how much you appreciate receiving it (even if only to discard it later).

While on this subject, you can also lay business cards on the table if you are meeting in a conference room. As a practice, I align the business cards to match the person's location in the conference table. This is a trick I learned so as not to bungle with names or titles that can potentially lead to awkward situations.

Remember these do's and don’ts because it will help you with your business transactions. Everything comes in a package and you as a professional should come as a package as well: the way you dress, speak and conduct yourself. These tips are not only for business dealings, they can also guide you as you conduct your daily life.

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