How to Present Your Business Card

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By Barbara Raskauskas
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Good first impression

Business cards are used to remind someone who you, for whom you work, or how to get in touch with you. Here are some tips on when and how to present your business card.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

When meeting someone for the first time, whether a planned event or coincidental, wait until you know the person before you offer your card. The person may not be someone you want to have your number, so there is a security aspect that you need to think about.
Step 2

Even if you are going to dinner with family or to a movie, museum, basically any social event, take your cards with you. You never know when you might strike up a conversion with someone who is looking for help in your field.
Step 3

If an executive asks for your card, then present it to him. You should not offer your card to an executive unless you are asked. On the other hand, if you are talking with a potential client, it is acceptable to offer them your card so they can contact you.
Step 4

When you present your card to someone, make it a private event to show your interest in the individual. You should not give your card to everyone you meet at an event nor should you place stacks of your cards around the room. Aside from the fact that it is poor etiquette, people may think you are selling something and try to avoid you. And if you ARE trying to sell something, a business or other social gathering is not the time to offer a sales pitch. As with Step 3, offer your card when asked or when a potential business opportunity arises.
Step 5

When you present your card to someone, hold the card horizontally, with the wording so the recipient can read it. Hold the card with your palm up and your thumb only slightly over the card and preferably in a white area of the card.
Step 6

You can use your business card inside a thank you card or when sending business material to a potential client. Add a note to the back of the card with a special thank you or with a brief comment about the material you are sending ("This is the literature I said I would send you. Call me with questions. Tom")
Step 7

Keep your cards in good shape. Do not present cards that are dirty or damaged. Using a case especially designed for carrying business cards will ensure your cards are always clean, giving people a good first impression of you.