Business cards have always played a big role in representing oneself or their business and this practice can be tracked way back to 15th century china.
Business cards are the starting point for your networking and furthermore success, that’s why it’s doubly important how you present your card. A lot of entrepreneurs or small businesses don’t understand this and its importance and forget that it only takes a single wrong move to jeopardise their image since you only have a single shot to make a first impression.
You won’t believe how many people lose their face even though they are really well dressed, speak fluently and are highly confident but somehow still leave a bad impression just because of their poor etiquette, which also includes a lack of understanding of how they should present their business card properly.
Always Carry A Business Card Even In Your House Or Office
This is one of the most important things to remember – what’s the point of having a fancy-looking business card with a calligraphy signature if you won’t carry it? Opportunities to connect with a potential client or customer can come from anywhere and anytime, so it comes up to you that your business cards are always on yours. You can carry them in a small cardholder box or a container that will also allow you to protect them from wearing and tearing.
Just as a side note, before getting your card printed make sure the cards are good quality– think of it as another part of your profession and the company you represent. It should have a well throughout layout and colour scheme.
Treat Them Like Business Cards -Not Flyers
A lot of newcomers mistake their business cards for flyers and try to hand them over to every person they see or meet at an event or gathering, they make the mistake of assuming that handing over a thousand cards would mean they will receive a thousand calls in a few days which can also demoralise them.
Even though your goal should be to make as many connections as possible, you will still need to sharpen your skills as a businessman to identify the more qualified targets which should be your first priority, and look for people who can become your referral source or even future employers. To make it even simpler, you will have to be more selective on who you are going to choose to exchange your cards with.
Give Your Business Card Only When Asked
Sometimes, it’s better to hold back and not present your business card, especially when you are attending important meetings with your higher-ups. Make sure you wait until you are asked to present your card. If someone wants to connect with us after the meeting, they will ask you on their own about the ways they can contact you, and that would be the best time to share your business card. Furthermore, try not to give a dozen cards to a single person – this will send them the wrong message that you don’t think your cards are worth much.
Treat The Business Cards Professionally
A lot of businesses and industries have a different way of doing this so make sure that you have understood and observed the general practice in your field. Sometimes it’s okay to write a note on the back of your card, which can help in increasing your connection but sometimes it is also not advised to prevent any mistakes from happening, it’s better that you ask the person beforehand if it’s okay or not.
One way you can stop yourself from making any mistakes is by observing your surroundings, make sure you study the people around you and how they are treating each other’s cards or even yours but don’t assume anything it’s better to ask their permission.
Make Sure Your Card Is Adequate
A big part of business card etiquette is to make sure that your card is not crumpled or dirty in any way possible – it’ll not only hurt your first impression but also your reputation. You will have to make sure that your card is presentable with no dirt marks or folds while we are at it– if, for some reason, you have changed your location and removed some cold contact info, it is better that you print some new cards instead of crossing the old information and writing on it.
One more thing to consider is the place where you put your card box at all times, otherwise, you will have to search and rummage through your pockets or things just to find a single card that won’t just hurt your credibility but also make you lose your face instantly. Furthermore, as advice, don’t place your card in your wallet since not only will it make creases, but it is also really unprofessional to bring your wallet out every time someone asks for your card.
To Sum It Up!
Your mannerism is really important when it comes to the culture of presenting your business card. Some people might treat their business card like an afterthought and don’t understand the big role it plays in making connections but you are different and want to understand its etiquette. So make sure that you always carry your business on your person either in a Card box or container and don’t treat them like flyers only represent them when asked.
