In Japan, exchanging meishi, or ‘business cards,’ is a highly valued practice. A smooth meishi exchange has the power to garner the respect of your new colleagues or business associates.
Here is a quick guide on how to exchange business cards like a seasoned Japanese Salary Man.
1. Be Prepared
Make sure to prep enough business cards in advance of the meeting. You will likely be handing out a card for each individual you are introduced to.
2. Make sure your cards are easily accessible
Make sure your cards are easily accessible and can be pulled out and presented immediately. Investing in a business card case can go a long way. Keep your case in a designated place.
3. Present Your Card with a Bow when Introducing Yourself
With your right hand, offer your Meishi with your right hand without covering the name on the card. Your Meishi cardholder or case is to be held in your left hand. From here, bow, and introduce yourself.
4. Accept the Other Person’s Meishi
Accept the other person’s Meishi with two hands, hold it at a low position, and thank them for their meishi.
5. Read the Meshi
Look over the meishi and learn the presenter’s name. If the name is written in Kanji, this is a great opportunity to ask for clarity on how to read their name. This all shows interest and is considered polite.
6. Rinse and repeat
Keep repeating this process until everyone has both given and received their meishi. Make sure to treat their card with respect!
If you are interested in seeing this meishi dance in real-time, check out a short video we made on the topic!