Business Card Etiquette in Japan
In Japan, exchanging business cards is a practice that borders on ritual. A failure to follow such the appropriate actions and manner can be costly to the reputation to yourself and company you represent. To avoid some of the social pitfalls when exchanging business cards, here are a few important tips.
Bring a good supply
When making preparations for an important event or meeting, adequately preparing your business cards can be easily forgotten. Make sure to always take with you an ample supply of business cards (in a proper card case, of course). Making connections with as many (of the right) people as possible is important. Make sure to bring more than you think you will need, so that you have extra on hand. It's better to have too many on you than not enough. You don't want to run out and not have one when you really need to make that connection.
Keep them clean
Make sure to store them in a card case for easy access and to keep them presentable. Your business card is a representation of you. In Japan, how you treat your business card can be a reflection for how you value yourself and your company. So, it is important to keep them out of your pocket or wallet where they can get wrinkled. Keep in mind that the same goes for the business cards you receive from others. Disrespecting someone's business card can be seen as disrespecting the person.
Bow and introduce yourself
Upon your first face-to-face encounter with your Japanese counterpart, bow slightly and introduce yourself with your business card already in your hands.
The exchange
This is where you can really show your respect and gratitude for the occasion. When they, and they will, show you their business card, place your business card below theirs with both hands. This will communicate to them that you are respectful and that you are humbled. Then gently grab their card with your right hand as they grab yours.
Respect the business card
As mentioned above, when you receive their business card, make sure to show it respect. Look at it and acknowledge what's written on the card. If you can't read Japanese, just nod and keep the business card in front of you to show that you're interested.
Place the card somewhere safe
When putting away the business card that you just received, make sure they see you place it in a secure location. If you place their card in your pocket or wallet, it will only show that you don’t respect their name and business.
Business card etiquette in Japan can be quite complicated and difficult to understand. However, following the steps above should get you off on the right foot and set you up to make successful connections in Japan.
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