by Chris Bennett
Etiquette can be defined as 'the rules of behaviour' and the word comes from an old French word literally meaning 'ticket'.
The etiquette of exchanging business cards can be either a successful or embarrassing experience.
Here are four tips on the etiquette of exchanging business cards.
Timing
Make sure you get to know the person you are talking to, and see if you can establish a connection before you offer your business card. If you offer it too quickly you may appear desperate or, even worse, amateurish.
Read it
When you receive a card make sure you spend at least three seconds reading it. If you just glance at it and put it away quickly you may appear rude and not really interested.
Card harvester
Don't become a card harvester and try to collect as many business cards as you can at a function or a meeting. What's the point of having a large collection of cards without making a personal or professional connection? Be selective, and the few cards you do collect will have more value in terms of follow-ups and possible business.
Culturally specific
Different cultures have certain rules for receiving and giving business cards. Find out these rules so you can act professionally and courteously when exchanging business cards. That first impression in exchanging business cards with an international contact can make a big difference for future business.
When you have the right 'ticket' you will then be ready to exchange business cards.
