Basic Business Card Etiquette: Six Points Students Should Know

Published: Oct 19, 2026 | Updated: Oct 19, 2026 | About (Japanese)

Key points

You may exchange business cards at internships, alumni visits and networking events. Here are the basics.

Six points

Stand to exchange. Even if seated, stand up to exchange.
Take it from a card case. Avoid pulling it straight from a pocket.
Hand it over with both hands. Face it so the other person can read it and say your name as you give it.
Receive it with both hands. Add a word of thanks.
Check the name. If you are unsure of the reading, ask on the spot.
Treat received cards with care. When placing it on a table, put it on the other person's card case or at the edge of the table. Do not put it away right away.

Having no card is not rude. But with one, you can share your name and contact properly.
Without a card, say so aloud: "I don't have a card. I'm Yamada from ○○ University."

Generally the junior person (such as the visitor) gives theirs first. With several people, give in order starting from the most senior.

Note the date, where you met and what you discussed.
When you write a thank-you email, check the card so you do not misspell the name.

Having your own card ready with Create Business Cards / Name Cards means you are never caught out.

If this guide helped, a small tip would mean a lot.