Modern Mandarin Chinese Grammar

Names, kiNship terms, titles, aNd terms of address

22.6

22.6 Name cards and business cards

Name cards and business cards are widely used in China, and people often exchange name

cards when they meet for the first time. The information on a person’s name card will help you

to determine how to address him or her.

When handing your card to someone, use both hands, and give it to the person so that the writing

is facing him or her. Receive a card with both hands, read the card, and thank the person who

gave you the card or comment on the information on the card so that it is clear that you have

read it. If business cards are exchanged during a meeting or a meal, it is customary to place

the cards you receive on the table, arranged according to hierarchy, so that you can refer to

them as you talk.

The organization of the Chinese name card or business card is typically as follows:

Business Organization

Title

NAME education degree

(Contact information)

Address

Telephone number

Mobile phone number

Fax number

XX

10

8666–8686

8666–8687

13058886666