CALLING ALL CARDS

Elevator Pitch Part 6

At a business networking function, a gentleman gave another gentleman his card. It happened to be his last one. Moments later he returned, confessing he had just met someone really important and needed that card back! Really? Yes, this really happened.

This man was certainly no boy scout: he was neither prepared, nor courteous. If he saw nothing wrong in asking for his card back, I could imagine him admitting to the “really important” person, “Excuse me a moment, I gave my last card to that guy and I’d rather you have it!” Compliment? I don’t think so.

Yes, business cards are a valuable tool, but they should not be thrust upon unwilling victims, nor used as your elevator pitch opening. I’ve seen it all too many times, that person who works the room like a shark, never still, constantly moving through the crowd with the smile, the card and snap! It’s on to the next victim.

In Japan, there is an entire ceremony tied to presenting one’s card or meishi. Meishi are kept in fine leather cases so that they do not become worn or tattered- a sign of disrespect. (Doesn’t make the best impression here, either!) Meishi are presented, holding the card with both hands, by the outer corners, always face up, turned, so that it may be easily read by the receiver. The giving and acceptance of one’s card is not done lightly, but is a symbol of the respect afforded the other party.

While we do not subscribe to the same level of ceremony, asking before offering one’s card is a simple sign of respect. “May I give you my card? I would love for us to speak further.” If the situation seems right, ask for his or her card. “I would love to hear more about your project. May I have your card?”

If you find yourself in the same situation as our gentleman in the opening paragraph, simply admit to the truth (unless the truth is that you have a full box of cards under your desk and you never think to carry them with you!) and ask if you may have one of theirs.

It may be one of the few times it is better to receive than to give!