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Present business cards with both hands

Offer and receive business cards with both hands, text facing the recipient, and take a moment to read a card before putting it away.

ChinaBusinessstrictUpdated September 2, 2026

Hold your card by its top corners and present it with both hands, oriented so the recipient can read it right-side up without turning it.

Receive a card the same way, read it before setting it down, and keep it visible on the table during the meeting rather than pocketing it immediately.

  • Have your card translated into Chinese (simplified characters) if you deal with China regularly — an English-only card reads as under-prepared.
  • Check your card is pristine before handing it over — no bent corners, no smudges. A shabby card reflects on you, not just the printer.
  • Never write on a card you’ve just received, in front of the giver or otherwise.

Why it matters

The card exchange stands in for a first impression of the person themselves, handling it carelessly (one hand, no glance, straight into a back pocket) reads as dismissive of the relationship, not just the paper. Card quality matters too: thick stock and gold accents are noticed as a signal of status, which is part of why a card printed only in English, with no Chinese side, can read as under-prepared for a China-facing business relationship.

Source: China Business Culture Guide – Commisceo Global

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