Business cards are an information medium as well as illustration of entrepreneur’s reliability. That’s why most companies spend a great deal of time and money designing their business cards. As business cards are an important part of trade and an effective business tool, you should to have a knack of right using them.

The exchange of visiting cards is run according to rank, beginning with the most high-ranked members of the negotiating team. If the partners have the same official level, a younger presents his visiting card at first. If you meet in your office, etiquette compels you to present your visiting card at first as a host is the first who do it. When you present a visiting card, pronounce your name aloud. In that case, a partner will be able to repeat it without mistakes. Receiving a business card from someone else, read it and try to repeat the person's name aloud, especially if it is in a language you're not familiar with. The text of the business card should be also seen at once.

Rules of handling business cards also depend on the country. In accordance with traditions of South East Asia, both hands take part in this process and card’s text should be directed towards whom you offer a card. It is also advisable to take a business card with two hands.
In Islamic countries you should always reach a business card with your right hand as the left is considered unclean.

During negotiations, put business cards in front of you, arranging cards in the same way your partners are sitting. A serious breach of etiquette is not to know a business partner with whom you exchange business cards.
If you are doing business in countries with another language, you should have business cards in English and translated into the local language. It will be a sign that you are considerate and know the nuances of conducting business internationally.

It is prohibited to crumple other’s business card, make any marks on it, and turn in an owner presence. This is a sign of disrespect. If you haven’t found your partner in his office, left your business card, fold the right upper corner and then unbend it. The fold is the sign that you personally have left the card. It will be the evidence of great respect. A driver or a courier may also deliver your business card; in that case you shouldn’t fold the card.

It is worthwhile to systematize all received business cards in alphabetical order or according to fields of their owners.
You may correct changed phone number on your business card just crossing out the old ones and writing new. Don’t correct your appointment, in such case you should order new business cards.

You should always carry more cards than you will need. If your business cards come to the end suddenly, you may be compromised as a businessman. You should carry business cards in a small case. If you don't have a card case with you, put your cards in a front or side pocket. Never put a received card in your hip-pocket!