Business Card Etiquette...for meetings and networking events - GWCC

Do you have a long box of business cards just waiting to be given to a new group of contacts? If networking is important to you, then you are fortunate to be a Chamber member. We have many opportunities to present our business cards to new business associates at Business Card Exchanges. Whether you are a pro at presenting your card or new to this form of networking, there are some very important guidelines that you should know.

How the American lost the international sale…

There is a protocol for giving someone your business card here in the USA. There is also a protocol for every other country. Before even embarking on an international meeting; know their business culture. It could mean the difference between a sale and a lost deal. It was brought to my attention recently that an American businessperson went to a meeting in Canada to discuss a business venture. The American walked into the room, sat at the conference table and flung his card across the table with a Frisbee-like throw. END OF DEAL! That one action sealed the fate of that opportunity. Canadians are very formal in business and consider their business card an extension of themselves. The American did not present himself appropriately….no deal.

American Culture and the business card

Americans are less formal with card exchanges, but you know when you hand your card to someone how it feels if they just toss it in their pocket or leave it on a table. When you attend meetings or go to networking events you want to look and act professionally.

Here is exactly what to do when you receive a card:

• Accept the card with one hand; then hold the card with both hands while looking at the card.

• Look directly at the person and say “thank you” and use their name.

• Do not write on the card….at least in front of the person.

• Carefully put the card in the place that you are keeping cards during the event.

• Do something with the card when you get back to your office: record the contact information, follow-up with your new contact by sending a note or make a phone call….that is the other side of networking….not just building a tower of business cards.

Next month this column will feature your business card - a quick assessment of its merit and how to give your card; who to give it to and when it is inappropriate to give your card. Stay tuned!

Joan R. Stokely (jrs@thesocietyofdiplomacy.com) is the President of The Society of Diplomacy, Inc., a protocol and etiquette consulting firm. We offer extraordinary training programs for corporate professionals who desire greater success in their careers. Increase your knowledge of business protocol and etiquette, your corporate image, international intelligence and social skills by attending programs specifically designed for you.

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