10 Tips and Advice for Business Card Etiquette

A guest post by  Marina Jarin

 

Just as networking events are important, knowing how well to navigate the events can bring great results for any professional. Giving out a business card is an art that should be learnt and especially if you want to be effective. It is always important to know how this can be done professionally as this will help create a good impression that could be rewarding.

Rule No 1: Let your design stand out

Excellence and originality have a way of getting people’s attention. You should therefore design your card in such a way that it will capture the attention of the recipient, leaving him or her with a desire to get in touch with you. If not sure of what you want, hire a professional designer to help you come up with a presentable and unique business card.

Rule No 2: Give relevant information

Although your design should stand out as unique, it is important to also include accurate information in your card. You should be able to give out your up to date contacts including your full names and position.

Rule No 3: Know who and when to give out the card

The way you present your card to a recipient matters a lot. Business card etiquette demands that not everyone should be given a card simply because you have met. Before giving out the card, always strike a conversation with the recipient and be sure that you are on the same page as far as business is concerned. Always pick the right time and right people to give your business card.

Rule No 4: If not sure, ask your contact for his/her card

Sometimes, asking the other person for their business card could open a door for them to ask for yours. This could work very well especially if you feel there is something that you need to follow up with them based on your conversation.

Rule No 5: Keep your card clean and presentable

Before handing out your business card, it is always important to ensure that it is both clean and presentable. Remember this could have a major impact on your card and will determine whether the recipient will receive it gladly.

Rule No 6: If you are the recipient, handle the card carefully

A business card is more of an ambassador for the one giving it. Once you receive a card, handle it with care and show appreciation to the one giving you.

Rule No 7: Pay attention when giving or receiving a card

It will be important to hold the card with the front side facing the recipient. Additionally, do not hand out the card to someone when your attention is towards other things or people. This shows contempt to the recipient.

Rule No 8: Have your card translated if traveling overseas

Always appreciate that not everyone has the capability to understand English for example. For this reason, translate the most important information and write it at the back of your card especially if traveling to another country where English is not their first language

Rule No 9: include your name and title on the business card

When designing your card, it is important to include these two details. This shows some level of professionalism and will have an impact on the recipient. If you have a bachelor’s degree, include it on the title.

Rule No 10: Always study the card once you receive it

Reading the card and commenting on it shows appreciation. This should be done rather than stashing the card into your wallet even without knowing the details. Let the other person know that you appreciate him or her and the card as well.

Business card etiquette is equally important as the business card itself and therefore should be learnt, mastered and adhered to, as this is the only way that your card can highly be effective.

About The Author:

Marina Jarin is a freelance writer who regularly writes article on technology and other business service related issues. If you looking for Business cards quickly to your door or Order a free business card design(Tilaa ilmainen käyntikorttien suunnittelu) at Finland make sure to visit at 
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