Exchanging Business Cards: Etiquette Tips

Some people think you should give your business card to anyone that will take it. Others say to only give it to people who ask for it. Otherwise, you’re just wasting your business card printing budget on people who are just going to throw your card away anyway.

The key to getting people to want your business card is to ask them for theirs first. Most likely, that person will ask for your business card in return. Then your card can get to work for you and you can work on making a new business contact.

Once you get a business card, there are some etiquette rules you should follow. Read on to learn how to take and give a business card with style and grace.

After engaging in small talk with someone new, ask them for their business card. Most people are pleased when asked for their business card and they’ll be happy to give it to you. This opens up the opportunity for them to ask you for yours in return. If they don’t ask you for yours though, don’t be pushy. After all, you still have their contact information now so you have an open door of communication.

Thank the other person for giving you her card. When you get a business card, say thanks and take time to read it – front and back. It’s nice to comment on the card; you can comment about the card design, beautiful colors used or the logo. If the business card is less than stellar, and you can’t make a comment, ask a question instead. No, not “Why did you pick this hideous green?” But ask them how long they’ve been in their position or with their particular company. If something is missing from the card, like an email address or Web site, ask for it then and there and add it to the card.

Ask if you can contact that person. Even though you assume it’s okay to contact the other person since they just gave you their card, it’s professional etiquette to ask to contact them. You don’t need to ask that directly though; one good way of asking for permission is to ask for the best way to contact that person – phone, email – or what time is best to contact. This way you’re showing respect and you’ll be remembered for that respect.

Don’t launch into your sales pitch when they ask for your card. Asking for your card is not asking about your latest and greatest product. Never try to sell something while exchanging business cards unless you’ve been specifically asked for more information about your product.

Send a note within two days. You can either mail them a card or send them an email to say you enjoyed meeting them. Jot down something you talked about to jog their memory. If the person didn’t ask for your business card, you can send it to them in the note. Sending an actual card or note through snail mail is more personal than email, and the person is more likely to remember you because of it.

Keep all business cards you collect in a Rolodex or file. You can even buy a business card album that has business-card–sized pockets. You never know when you’re going to need their business! You can file them in alphabetical order by name, or you can file by occupation or industry. This makes it easier to contact someone in the future.

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