Culture of Exchanging Business Cards

business-card-exchange.jpg


A very common scenario apart from what usually happens during those boring conference or seminar is exchange of business cards. When you meet someone, at a network gathering, business meetings, and social gathering; after you engage in little conversation, always ask them for their business card. Don’t forget to thank them for the card. Ask them for their permission to contact them. It is good professional manners to ask their permission, even though it is assumed that they would want you to contact them.

Things that you should take care and should be avoided are presentation of the card, should be distinctive and different from the rest, should possess a unique selling proposition, shouldn’t be too small, shouldn’t be a cluttered ne, make use of good colors in the card, now a day’s these plastic business cards are better in quality than cheap business cards made of paper because they don’t get worn out and are water-proof so this ensures that the card will remain with the clients for a long time, unless they are thrown out. Plastic cards are costlier than normal paper based cards.

These days, most businessmen are using plastic cards for their business because of its long portability. A business card typically includes the giver's name, company affiliation (usually with a logo) and contact information such as street addresses, telephone number(s), fax number, e-mail addresses and website. It can also include telex, bank account, and tax code. Traditionally many cards were simple black text on white stock; today a professional business card will sometimes include one or more aspects of striking visual design. Although its original use being so simple, it is considered really important today.

Dos and Don’ts with the business cards:

Do be prepared

Don't hand out torn or worn business cards

Do make it a point to hand out business cards

Do receive a business card properly

Don't hand out more than one card to a new contact

Do exchange business cards smoothly

Don't place it in a bag, pocket or wallet

Do take advantage of free advertising

We have Business Cards Types and you decide of what type you need to have a business card:

Free Business Cards

Express Business Cards

Business Cards Stickers

Capture Business Cards

Glossy Full Color Business Cards

Magnetic Business Cards

Metal Business Cards

Plastic Business Cards

Raised Print Business Cards

Fold-over Business Cards

Business cards have two purposes to give clients a way to contact you, and to advertise yourself to potential clients. Of course, these purposes go hand in hand: you want your clients to contact you so you can pitch your products and services to them, and by advertising to new clients you are giving them a way to contact you.

The e business card is a small device which acts like a business card and connects your online and offline activity. E exchanges information such as your personal details as well as your online profiles for websites like Facebook, twitter and LinkedIN. The service is provided through a small USB device, which when two are touched together, the information is exchanged. The service also works through a number of mobile devices including the iPhone, swapping information wirelessly. By keeping things digital, the device does away with the need for a paper business card. Once more people begin using smart phones, perhaps the age of the paper business card will disappear.

e1.jpg


 
Exchanging business cards remains a fundamental part of professional etiquette, particularly during conferences, networking events, and formal meetings. After a brief conversation, requesting a business card and thanking the person for it reflects professionalism. Asking for permission to follow up, though often assumed, demonstrates respect. The card itself should stand out—distinctive in design, free from clutter, and equipped with a unique selling proposition. Plastic business cards, increasingly popular for their durability and water resistance, offer a long-lasting impression compared to standard paper cards, though they are more expensive. A quality business card typically includes the individual's name, company, contact details, and may feature a logo or visual design for impact. While traditional cards were minimalist, today’s cards often incorporate vibrant colors, raised prints, or magnetic surfaces. Handling cards properly is essential: always keep them in pristine condition, hand them out smoothly, avoid giving multiple copies unnecessarily, and never tuck received cards away dismissively. A variety of types are available—glossy, metal, folded, magnetic—each serving different branding needs. Business cards serve both as contact tools and mini advertisements. With the rise of e-business cards and smart devices, digital exchange is gaining ground, hinting at a possible future beyond paper, though etiquette still matters in all formats.​
 
Back
Top