Business Card Etiquette: Presented by The Boutique Real Estate Group

LeverageRE

The business greeting in many cultures is often the initial impression a person can give to their clients.

Since our team is buying & selling in Southern California, we come across many different cultures, and each culture seems to have their own unique customs in regards to business. Over the last 5 years we have seen a massive influx of Chinese buyers who were purchasing to own & live in Southern California. A few things we learned over the years in regards to business greetings & etiquette include:

SOME HELPFUL TIPS:

1. You must have a business card. Not having a business card is like not having a name and the equivalent to not shaking someones hand in western culture.

2. Your title on your card is also very important. Most Chinese people want to feel they are speaking to someone very important or someone at their level. So if you are meeting a CEO of a Chinese company they will want to speak to the CEO of your company.

3. Receiving or giving your card:

You MUST be standing up (this shows respect)
You MUST have your cards in a case (this shows you are organized). The case should have a spot for your cards and for the card you are receiving.
You MUST hand your card over with both hands (as the photo above represents).
When you hand your card over please make sure the writing is face up towards your client (this shows courtesy).
Then you MUST accept your clients cards with both hands as well (as shown above).
When you receive the clients card, pause, read it and make a comment about their company, their title or simply repeat their name. If you are unsure how to pronounce their name now is the perfect time to ask and clarify.
Now place your clients card back in your case and put the case back in your jacket pocket over your heart (left side coat pocket). This shows honor as you are placing their card over your heart. If you are not wearing a jacket keep the card in your right hand for the entire meeting. If you are seated, then place the card in front of you (not face down).