Since business cards began in 15th-century China and 17th-century Europe, they’ve become a universal tool for making professional connections. But here’s the catch: to make a positive, lasting impression internationally, you need to do more than just hand one over. You need to master international business card etiquette.
For example, did you know that in Japan, a business card is seen as part of your identity, so writing on it could come off as rude? Or that in South Korea, giving a card with one hand is a missed chance to show respect? Each country has its own spin on business card etiquette, and understanding these customs can mean the difference between making a strong impression and getting forgotten in the shuffle. Let’s explore the essential global dos and don’ts to make sure you land business wherever you land in the world.
- International business card etiquette centers on handling cards respectfully to make a strong impression, show cultural awareness, build trust and expand business opportunities.
- Customs for giving, receiving and storing cards vary by culture—it’s essential for professionals and small business owners in global business to understand these specific differences.
- Basic etiquette includes printing high-quality cards, reading the card upon receiving it and storing it respectfully.
- Common mistakes to avoid with international business card exchanges include using culturally inappropriate colors or symbols, handling cards too casually, writing on the card (in certain cultures) and failing to consider local presentation etiquette, like using the wrong hand.
What is business card etiquette?
Business card etiquette refers to the customs and practices around the exchange, handling and presentation of business cards in professional settings. It’s about treating the cards—and, by extension, the people they represent—with respect, intention and cultural awareness. This includes knowing when and how to present your card, how to receive someone else’s and even how to store or display a card, all of which vary depending on the country, region or culture.
Why it’s important to learn international etiquette
Whether you’re doing business in New York or Tokyo, knowing the ins and outs of business card etiquette can set the tone for everything that follows that first interaction.
Source: Bright colored business card via VistaPrint
Mastering the interaction is essential because it…
- Builds trust: It shows you’re respectful and serious about building lasting relationships.
- Demonstrates cultural awareness: It signals that you’re mindful of local customs, avoiding culturally insensitive missteps that can leave a bad impression.
- Provides a positive, professional first impression: It establishes you as a globally-minded professional worth connecting with and makes your interaction more memorable.
- Strengthens networking: Respectful interactions enhance your international network and open doors.
Even if you currently only work with local clients and partners, understanding the international customs of card exchange is still valuable. It enhances your cultural competence, prepares you for future international opportunities, broadens your perspective and positions you as a culturally aware professional.
Basic business card etiquette
When it comes to business cards, some customs apply no matter where you are in the world. Think of these as the universal “golden rules” of exchange—standards that say you know what you’re doing before diving into culturally specific etiquette.
Pay attention to quality
Quality printing sets the tone before you even interact.
“The quality of your business card is crucial because it creates a lasting first impression. A well-designed, high-quality card can set you apart, reinforce your brand and leave a positive impact on potential clients or partners.”—Jennifer Collins, Sr. Category Experience Manager for Business Cards & Stationery at VistaPrint
Your card should look and feel professional, with a few specific details worth noting:
- Print clarity: Make sure text and logos are sharp, without any smudges or blurred lines.
- Legibility: Ensure fonts are clear and readable at a glance.
- Paperstock thickness: A flimsy card can feel unimpressive—choose a sturdy business card paper stock that feels substantial in hand.
- Color accuracy: Match your brand colors precisely—off-tones can look unprofessional.
- Finishes: A matte finish, glossy finish or textured finish can be the printing detail that sets your card apart.
Source: Business card finishes and card stock via VistaPrint
Present cards in the right orientation
Handing over your card face-up and oriented towards the recipient makes it easier for them to read as they receive it. This little gesture shows thoughtfulness and keeps the exchange smooth.
Ensure your business cards are in good condition
No one wants to receive a card that’s creased, stained or worn at the edges. Use a dedicated business card holder to keep cards clean and crisp, ready to present in top condition. This small touch shows that you’re serious about making a professional impression.
Refresh your stash of cards before important meetings or networking opportunities, ensuring they are in pristine condition.
Quickly read the card before storing it
Take a quick look at the card when you receive it—it’s a sign of respect and shows you are genuinely interested in connecting with the giver. Glancing at their title, company or name shows you’re engaged and not just meaninglessly collecting cards.
Store the card in a respectful manner
When receiving a card, don’t just toss it in a pocket or bag. Place it thoughtfully into a cardholder or neatly on the table if you’re still in conversation. Treating the card respectfully shows you value the connection it represents.
Source: A metal business card holder via VistaPrint
Translate business cards
If you’re heading abroad, having some of your cards translated into the local language ensures your details don’t get lost in translation. Accuracy is key here—incorrect translations or misspellings can lead to awkward misunderstandings.
Get a native speaker to review your translation for accuracy, while asking them for tips on local business etiquette.
Adjust the design for international networking
A one-size-fits-all approach to business card design doesn’t always cut it when networking internationally. Researching and following local design norms, from layout to color choices, can make sure your business card resonates with the recipient.
Start with the basics: include your name, title and company name, in an order that feels natural for the region. You might also add business hours if time zones could be an issue or include a culturally relevant symbol. Remember, colors and symbols have different meanings in different cultures, so be mindful of what those are when redesigning your cards for specific contexts.
Our design services and business card templates make it easy to customize your card design for different regions.
International business card etiquette for different regions
From a firm handshake in America to a respectful bow in Japan, how you give and receive a business card can speak volumes and ultimately impact the outcome of your business interaction. Let’s dive into the dos and don’ts of exchanging cards in different regions so you always make the right impression—no matter where you’re doing business.
East Asian business card etiquette
In East Asia, business cards carry a lot of weight—they’re seen as an extension of the individual. So, details matter and cards should be handled with care. These etiquettes apply across most East Asian countries:
- Design: Keep it clean and straightforward. Complex imagery can be misinterpreted or seem unprofessional.
- Numbers and colors: Avoid the number four, which sounds like “death” in Mandarin and Japanese. Likewise, black is associated with mourning. Instead, opt for blue (harmony), green (growth) or red (prosperity and good luck).
- No notes: It’s a sign of disrespect to scribble on the back (or front) of cards, so if you need to make notes about your new business contact, do this in your phone or notebook.
Business cards are very popular in East Asian countries and an essential part of business culture. You are expected to hand them out to everybody, so make sure you print enough!
Now, let’s zoom in on country-specific rules of business card exchange…
Japanese business card etiquette
In Japan, business cards, known as “Meishi,” are highly symbolic. Giving and receiving cards follows a ceremonial ritual, especially in group settings where hierarchy dictates the order of exchange—those in senior positions exchange first.
Present or receive a card with both hands, bowing slightly. Take a moment to study the card before putting it in a cardholder, keeping it out and visible during the meeting as a sign of respect. Because they are seen as an extension of the individual in Japan, it’s important not to write on them—this can be interpreted as disrespectful.
Source: Premium finish on business card via VistaPrint
Quality business cards show respect, so opt for premium cards and add elegant touches like raised foil or embossed gloss to leave that all-important positive lasting impression.
Korean business card etiquette
In South Korea, business card exchanges are all about respect and hierarchy, much like in Japan. Present and receive a card with both hands and give it a quick but meaningful glance before placing it in a holder (pockets are a no-go).
Unlike in some cultures, Koreans prefer to keep titles on cards understated—overloading a card with flashy titles can appear boastful. A clean, straightforward design aligns with South Korea’s values and sets the right tone for a respectful business relationship.
Chinese business card etiquette
In China, business cards are a serious matter and a few thoughtful details can make all the difference. To make the best impression, print them with one side translated into Chinese. For business in mainland China and Singapore, use Simplified Chinese; for Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macau, use Traditional Chinese.
Source: Premium business cards via VistaPrint
When exchanging cards, stand up and offer them individually using both hands. Present cards with the Chinese side facing up toward the recipient. Like in Japan, it’s considered disrespectful to make notes on the back of a card in China. Scribble them down in a notebook instead.
In meetings, keeping the card on the table in front of you is a sign of respect and helps you remember names and titles. Titles carry weight in Chinese business culture, so clearly display your role on the card to signify your position within your company. Finally, always bring enough business cards to a meeting—arriving without them could harm your professional relationships.
Red is seen as lucky in China, so when redesigning your card for networking in China, use pops of the color or red foil accents.
Indian business card etiquette
India has its own distinct approach to business card etiquette. When exchanging cards, always use your right hand—using the left can be seen as impolite—and present your card text-side up after a handshake.
Hierarchy matters here, so always greet the most senior person first and use titles and last names to show respect. In India, academic achievements are highly regarded, so it’s a good idea to include your college degree on your business card.
If adjusting the color of your business card for networking in India, blue, green and white are typically preferred in professional settings.
Middle Eastern business card etiquette
Business cards in the Middle East are often given freely as a friendly gesture, to clients, colleagues and other business contacts you meet along the way. It’s considered polite to offer your card with the right hand—a small detail that goes a long way to show respect and cultural awareness.
If you’re doing business in Middle Eastern countries like the UAE or Saudi Arabia, translating one side of your card into Arabic is appreciated.
If your card has both English and Arabic text, placing icons (like phone, email or address) from left to right accommodates the flow of both languages, especially if English is on one side and Arabic on the other.
While green holds significance in Islamic culture, it’s often reserved for religious or governmental contexts, so use it sparingly, if at all, unless you’re in a relevant field.
European business card etiquette
Western European business card etiquette
In Western Europe, business card exchanges are generally quite relaxed, but each country brings its own touch: In France, Italy and Germany, bilingual cards are a smart choice, especially for international interactions. France shows a preference for formality by printing last names in all caps—a subtle but telling detail. Italy values academic credentials, so if you hold a degree, you’re expected to highlight it on your card.
In Germany, exchanges are more reserved, and cards are typically only shared with those you’ve connected with personally at networking events. Whereas in France, the UK and Ireland, it’s common to hand cards out to any potential business contact or client.
Eastern European business card etiquette
In Eastern Europe, business cards carry a sense of formality. Titles signaling your role and authority are important here, so include yours on your card along with your contact details, such as direct phone number, email, and company address.
QR codes on business cards are gaining popularity in Eastern Europe. Professionals link these codes to a Linktree or landing page featuring their LinkedIn profile, portfolio and relevant social media accounts, making it easier for new contacts to explore their professional background.
Source: QR code business card via VistaPrint
American business card etiquette
North American business card etiquette
In the U.S. and Canada, business card exchanges are casual yet professional, with a focus on quality over ceremony or formality. Here, cards are exchanged with ease, though timing matters—wait until the conversation turns to business and people with more senior authority have handed out their cards before offering yours.
Source: Natural textured business cards via VistaPrint
To show authentic engagement and interest when receiving a card, take a moment to look at it and ask a quick question before putting it away in a cardholder. In North America, it’s perfectly fine, even appreciated, to jot down notes on the back of a business card, making the exchange feel more personal and long-lasting.
In Canada, a bilingual card with both French and English translations is the norm, reflecting the country’s two official languages.
When designing cards for networking in North America, use paper stock that’s easy to write on, like recycled matte or natural textured card.
South American business card etiquette
South American business etiquette is similar to North America’s in its relaxed but respectful approach to exchanging cards. Presentation and high-quality cards are valued here. Levels of formality are mixed, but relationships are the priority, so avoid overly formal gestures and focus on making genuine quality connections.
Timing varies by country, however—Brazilians often exchange cards at the beginning of a meeting, while in Colombia, it’s more flexible, with cards handed out whenever it feels natural in the conversation.
Ready to print business cards?
Respecting cultural nuances in business card etiquette shows your professionalism and adaptability in international settings. Small adjustments, like timing, language or design, can make a strong, positive impression and set the stage for successful business relationships. So, if you want to make your mark, start with a business card that speaks the right language wherever you go.
FAQs
What is the etiquette for exchanging business cards?
International business card etiquette includes presenting a card face-up (in the language of the person you are presenting it to), briefly reading the card to show genuine interest and storing it respectfully in a cardholder.
In which countries is it important not to write on the back of a business card?
Writing on a card is considered disrespectful in Chinese and Japanese business card etiquette. This is because, in these East Asian countries, business cards are seen as extensions of the individual.
What are the key rules of Japanese business card etiquette?
In Japan, use both hands to exchange business cards, give a slight bow to show respect, and read the card carefully before storing it in a cardholder.
What are some common mistakes to avoid with international card exchanges?
Avoid using inappropriate colors or symbols in card design, using the wrong hand to give or receive a card, handling or storing cards without care, and generally not following local etiquette for timing and hierarchy.
How should I prepare my business cards for international travel?
It’s a good idea to redesign your business card to reflect cultural preferences, such as color symbolism and emphasis on titles or academic achievements. Prepare for international travel by printing translated cards, especially when traveling in China and the Middle East.
