In childhood, I used to fancy a lot about business cards. The titles, fancy contacts, emails, websites used to amaze me. I observe that person's outer lifestyle, how they speak and behave. The professional smile they carry on - I started practicing in front of the mirror since then, used to do a lot of imaginary handshakes, and greetings when no one is around, in the home or many a times, while bathing.
I used to check the business cards my father had on the desk, curiously, I used to ask about their titles and what they do. He also said business cards shouldn't be thrown away once the work is done, there's some value to a card that will be understood later.
Even after I stepped into college, he said when people offer their cards, it shouldn't be thrown away even when there is no business to deal. We should still respect the other person.
After I started working, I saw my L2's business card and I was exclaimed and I should be getting that title sometime in the future. He told me to apply for the business card, I was nervous as I was a fresher, by then.
Few weeks later I got hands on my 1st business card. Oh God! that feeling was damn high with teary eyes. Took a deep breath, read my name, it sounded dashing.
I first gave it to my dad, he was very proud and kept it in his wallet. Mom kissed the card. Went to my grandparents home, handed it to my grandfather, his eyes and the feeling he had that moment - he was damn proud of me!
In the beginning, I used to handover my card after the meetings with a single hand, in a western style. Then I was taught the proper way of issuing:-
When we meet someone, be it a meeting or a first-timer, after the firm handshake, we should give our business card with both the hands and then get to discuss about the business or the meeting, mostly Indian way.
With QR codes, websites, LinkedIn around, culture of business cards shouldn't die.
Do share the story of your first business card :) and how's it going?
