Business card etiquette

Did you know that exchanging business cards is an integral part of business etiquette? Not every novice entrepreneur is aware that there are certain norms for exchanging business cards. Once you have printed your first batch of business cards, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the accepted norms of card exchange.

Exchanging business cards is a ceremony, so you should not keep them in your pockets. At the moment of exchange, you will have to search for it, and it might become unruly, crumpled, or dirty in your pockets. Cards should be stored in special cardholders or, at a minimum, in your wallet. Before exchanging cards, make sure it looks neat and clean.

Remember that higher-ranking individuals present their cards first. If you are the host, you should be the first to hand out your card. The card should be oriented with the text facing up, so the partner can read your information immediately. If you receive a business card, you should pronounce the partner’s name and pay attention to their title. In the presence of the host, do not bend the edges of the card or make notes on it, as it is a sign of disrespect.

If you were unable to hand your card personally to a business partner, you can leave it with the secretary. Before doing this, fold down the upper right corner, then smooth it out. The business partner will understand that you personally left your card. If your colleague is leaving your card at the organization, fold down the left corner and place it in an envelope.

When delivering a card with a courier or driver, you do not need to fold the corner.

If you are mailing your business cards to various organizations, you should write “to whom” in the upper right corner.

If you are not handing out the cards personally, the business card etiquette requires making special notes in the lower left corner to indicate the purpose of giving the card.

The notes consist of the first letters of words in French. It is not necessary to know how they are pronounced; just remember their meanings.

• R.R. (pour presentation) – “for presentation.” The purpose of handing over the card is for introduction or recommendation.
• P.F.C. (pour faire connaissance) – “for the purpose of acquaintance.” This note indicates interest in making an acquaintance.
• P.P.C. (pour prendre conge) – “for the purpose of farewell.” This is a way to say goodbye when there is no opportunity to do so in person.
• P.F. (pour fete) – “for a celebration.” In this case, the card can serve as a congratulatory note.
• P.F.F.N. (pour faire fete nationale) – “on the occasion of a national holiday.” A card can be given to foreign partners on their national holiday.
• P.F.N.A. (pour fete Nouvel An) – “on the occasion of the New Year.”
• P.R.V. (pour rendre visite) – response to an invitation. If the business card is placed in an envelope, it means the invitation is accepted.