By Aunt T. Bougie | Style & Etiquette Consulting
🧠 Pop Quiz:
When presenting your business card to someone, how should you hold it?
A) With one hand like you’re handing over a flyer
B) Toss it across the table — no big deal
C) With both hands, facing the recipient, with a slight bow
(Answer at the bottom — but if you picked anything other than “C,” keep reading, darling… we’ve got some polishing to do.)
What Is Meishi Kōkan?
In Japanese culture, meishi kōkan (名刺交換) isn’t just an exchange of business cards — it’s a ritual. A delicate, intentional display of respect, humility, and professionalism.
Your business card is an extension of your identity. And the way you present it? That’s a direct reflection of your etiquette, values, and regard for the recipient.
🪞 Aunt Bougie’s Breakdown: The Right Way to Present a Business Card
Master this timeless exchange — whether you’re at a global summit, local networking event, or your first big client meeting.
✅ Step 1: Preparation is Poise
- Keep your cards pristine in a card holder, not floating in your bag or wallet. Bent corners = broken first impressions.
✅ Step 2: The Presentation
- Hold your card with both hands, thumbs on the corners.
- Face the card toward the recipient so they can read it instantly.
- Offer with a slight bow (or nod if culturally appropriate).
- Use respectful phrases such as:
- “My name is [Full Name], it’s a pleasure to meet you.”
- “Please accept my card.”
✅ Step 3: Receiving the Card
- Accept with both hands, read it carefully, and do not immediately pocket it.
- Acknowledge the person’s name and title with appreciation.
- If seated, place it on the table (not on your lap or in a stack).
🚫 What Not To Do:
- Don’t slide it across the table
- Don’t fold, write on, or stash it mid-convo
- Don’t treat it casually — your respect is showing
💬 Aunt Bougie’s Tip:
You never get a second chance to make a global first impression. Business cards may seem small, but they speak volumes in cross-cultural etiquette. Whether you’re in Tokyo or Tulsa — polish wins.
✨ Want to Be the One They Remember?
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- International etiquette musts
- First impression finesse
- The cultural details that separate good from unforgettable
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🧠 Pop Quiz Answer:
C) With both hands, facing the recipient, with a slight bow.
You’re not just giving a card — you’re giving honor.
With poise and power — Stride. Rise. Thrive.
– Aunt T. Bougie™
Aunt Bougie™ 