DigiLab Singapore :: Name Cards :: Full Color Printing

NAME CARDS ETIQUETTE

When doing business abroad it is important to understand the local culture. Culture includes areas such as a countrys norms, values, behaviours, food, architecture, fashion and art. However, one area of culture that is important for the international business person is etiquette.

Understanding business etiquette allows you to feel comfortable in your dealings with foreign friends, colleagues, customers or clients. Knowing what to do and say in the right places will help build trust and open lines of communication.

One aspect of etiquette that is of great importance internationally is the exchanging of name cards.

Unlike in North America or Europe where the name card has little meaning other than a convenient form of capturing essential personal details, in other parts of the world the name card has very different meanings.

For example, in Japan the name card is viewed as a representation of the owner. Therefore proper business etiquette demands one treats the name card with respect and honour.

Below we have provided you with a few examples of international name card exchange etiquette that may help you on your business trips abroad.

General Name Card Etiquette Tips
Name cards are an internationally recognised means of presenting personal contact details, so ensure you have a plentiful supply.
Demonstrating good business etiquette is merely a means of presenting yourself as best you can. Failure to adhere to foreign business etiquette does not always have disastrous consequences.
When traveling abroad for business it is advisable to have one side of your name card translated into the appropriate language.
Name cards are generally exchanged at the beginning of or at the end of an initial meeting.
Good business etiquette requires you present the card so the recipients language is face up.
Make a point of studying any name card, commenting on it and clarifying information before putting it away.

Name Card Etiquette in China
Have one side of your name card translated into Chinese using simplified Chinese characters that are printed in gold ink since gold is an auspicious colour.
Ensure the translation is carried out into the appropriate Chinese dialect, i.e. Cantonese or Mandarin.
Your name card should include your title. If your company is the oldest or largest in your country, that fact should be highlighted on your card.
Hold the card in both hands when offering it.
Never write on someone's card unless so directed.

Name Card Etiquette in India
If you have a university degree or any honour, put it on your name card.
Always use the right hand to give and receive name cards.
Name cards need not be translated into Hindi as English is widely spoken within the business community.

Name Card Etiquette in Japan
Name cards are exchanged with great ceremony.
Invest in quality cards.
Always keep your name cards in pristine condition.
Treat the name card you receive as you would the person.
Make sure your name card includes your title. The Japanese place emphasis on status and hierarchy.
Name cards are always received with two hands but can be given with only one.
During a meeting, place the name cards on the table in front of you in the order people are seated.
When the meeting is over, put the name cards in a name card case or a portfolio.

Name Card Etiquette in the UK
Name card etiquette is relaxed in the UK and involves little ceremony.
It is not considered bad etiquette to keep cards in a pocket.
Name cards should be kept clean and presentable.
Do not feel obliged to hand out a name card to everyone you meet as it is not expected.

Written by Neil Payne of Kwintessential a UK based company providing cultural awareness training.

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