Business Cards & Stationery Introduction to Business Cards 5 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: At a trade show, what is the most professional way to handle receiving someone's business card?
- Put it in your pocket without looking
- Take a moment to look at it before putting it away (Correct answer)
- Write on it immediately in front of the giver
- Hand it back after reading
Correct answer: Take a moment to look at it before putting it away
Briefly reading a received card shows respect for the giver before storing it.
Question 2: In Japanese business etiquette, how should a business card (meishi) traditionally be presented?
- Tossed across the table
- With both hands and the text facing the recipient (Correct answer)
- Folded in half
- Inside an envelope
Correct answer: With both hands and the text facing the recipient
In Japan, cards are exchanged with both hands, text oriented toward the recipient, as a sign of respect.
Question 3: A freelancer is ordering her first batch of cards. Which practice best avoids costly reprints?
- Ordering 10,000 cards for the bulk discount
- Requesting a printed or digital proof before the full run (Correct answer)
- Skipping proofreading to save time
- Choosing the cheapest paper available
Correct answer: Requesting a printed or digital proof before the full run
Reviewing a proof catches typos and color issues before the full print run is produced.
Question 4: Which scenario is a strong argument for a digital business card instead of, or alongside, a printed one?
- Meeting contacts primarily at virtual events (Correct answer)
- Attending a formal in-person exchange in Tokyo
- Needing a card that works without any device
- Wanting a tactile letterpress impression
Correct answer: Meeting contacts primarily at virtual events
Digital cards can be shared instantly via link, QR, or NFC, which suits virtual networking.
Question 5: Why do many professionals still update and reprint cards even when their phone number stays the same?
- Printers require annual orders
- Titles, branding, addresses, or services change over time (Correct answer)
- Card ink legally expires
- Old cards stop scanning after a year
Correct answer: Titles, branding, addresses, or services change over time
Cards must stay accurate as roles, branding, and business details evolve.
Question 6: Handing out a business card with a typo in the email address most directly risks what?
- Higher printing taxes
- Lost inquiries and an unprofessional impression (Correct answer)
- Trademark infringement
- Slower card production next time
Correct answer: Lost inquiries and an unprofessional impression
A wrong email means missed contacts and signals carelessness to prospects.
Question 7: Which distribution strategy makes the most effective use of business cards?
- Leaving stacks anywhere without context
- Giving a card during a genuine conversation when contact exchange is relevant (Correct answer)
- Mailing cards randomly to strangers
- Only giving cards to existing clients
Correct answer: Giving a card during a genuine conversation when contact exchange is relevant
Cards are most effective when exchanged in a meaningful interaction where follow-up is likely.
Business Cards & Stationery Introduction to Business Cards 5
At a trade show, what is the most professional way to handle receiving someone's business card?