The Rights and Wrongs of Handing Out Business Cards

A business card, especially one that is well designed and to-the-point, can be one of your best marketing tools. But time and time again, both men and women dash their chances by not practicing proper business card etiquette.

What exactly is business card etiquette? Essentially, it means knowing when the timing is right to hand out a business card without seeming pushy, intrusive or rude.

Never seem stingy with your business cards (even if you are down to your last dozen). If you are in a group with 8 moms, all discussing the same thing, do not just offer one mom your business card. If you do not wish the other seven to have your business card, you should give or exchange business cards with the one mom later, when you are not in the presence of the others. Otherwise, offer all 8 women your business card. By shunning the other women, you have just committed one of the worst business card etiquette rules. And chances are, those seven other women would never do business with you if you did not deliberately exclude them.

Use your business cards as a way to market your business. Hand them out to others when they inquire about your business. Don't force them upon people who made a polite conversation by asking what you do for a living. The person you give the card to should have a genuine interest, or your card is wasted.

Never give out your business cards in uncomfortable situations. This could include funerals, discipline meetings at your child's school, or doctor's appointments (unless you happen to be on first name terms with the receptionist who asks specifically). These are all situations or events that should not be used for anyone's business gain.

Always read a business card when it is handed to you. That way you can immediately ask any questions that come to light by reading it.

Never interupt a conversation to give someone your business card, or to request a card from someone.

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