名刺（めいし meeshi), which means business cards, play an important role in Japanese business culture. If you want to network as a professional, you’ll benefit from a lesson on how to exchange business cards. The procedures are not complicated, but you want to get it right!
Presenting your Business Card
When you present your business card to someone, hold it up with both hands. It is best to stand up and take a light bow when doing so. (Here is a crash course on how to bow like the Japanese.) If you are passing your card to more than one person in a single setting, each delivery requires both hands. Step through it. No hurry!
Accepting a Business Card
When you accept a business card, receive it with both hands. Conclude the gesture with a light bow and then pause to read your new card carefully. Japanese business cards often have printing on both sides. You will find that one side is in Japanese while the other is an English translation. If you confront a two-sided business card, read both sides. If you can’t read something, stare at it for a moment as if you can. 😉
The last important step takes place when you decide to put the card away. If you happen to be seated at a conference table or meeting over lunch, place the card face up in front of you. After a period of time passes, you can discreetly remove the card and place it in your card case.
Points for Style
When you deal in business cards, you should always present a nifty carry case. No card exchange should ever start or end in a pants pocket. Instead business cards should be issued from and placed inside a professional business card carrying case.
If you freeze up at any point, just treat every business card like a winning lottery ticket and you’ll do fine!