How to Make an Impactful Business Card in Japan Part Two

The Meishi Koukan: The Exchange of Business Cards 

Card exchange even has a special name. This is the Meishi Koukan. It takes place in several stages like the famous tea ceremony.

 Without going into the details of Meishi Koukan , well described elsewhere, we must especially remember that for a Japanese, the business card is like an extension of himself. This view is a culture that is deeply rooted in the Japanese mind and undoubtedly results from the Shintoism which is inseparable from it.  

" If you are wondering why this piece of paper is so important in Japan, the you should know that it comes from Shintoism, which means that each object belonging to you contains a bit of our soul." Precise the specialists of Sakura House. 

Some Implications of Meishi Koukan 

Because of its ceremonial, even ritualistic side, the exchange of visiting cards will translate in Japan into several things to do or not to do. 

The beginning of the conversation will, in principle, begin with compliments on particular aspects of a good name card printing exchange such as, for example, their texture, their paper, their graphics, etc. 

Once given, the business card cannot be stored quickly in a jacket or trouser pocket. The absolute horror is putting the card in a back pocket of your pants. Your Japanese interlocutor will inevitably feel that you have no consideration for him. This is obviously not the best way to start a professional relationship. 

When the meeting begins, and everyone is seated around the conference table, the business cards remain clearly visible in front of each participant. 

If you happen to run out of business cards, then the least thing is to suggest that you don't have any more because you gave them all out. 

As for announcing that you forgot to do it you may be ready to write your name and phone number on a piece of paper… stop! do not even think about it! You would lose what little credibility you have left.