Business Cards: A Long History of Connection
Business cards, though simple and often just a small piece of paper, have a deep history and have played a crucial role in business partnerships. Unfortunately, some generations today may not fully appreciate their significance.
The Origins of Business Cards Business cards first appeared in Europe in the 17th century. At that time, they were used to announce the arrival of a noble or aristocrat in a town and sometimes were used to invite guests to their homes for events.
The Function of Business Cards In the 18th and 19th centuries, these cards were better known as "social cards." They were collected from women who visited homes for the first time. In Europe, it was customary for every home to have someone present a tray at the entrance, and visitors would place their card on it as a matter of etiquette. The card would then be given to the lady of the house to inspect, helping form a first impression of the guest.
When a visitor had to wait or queue in the waiting room of a house, it was considered impolite for guests to examine each other's cards. A social card with a folded corner indicated a personal visit, while a card folded in the center meant a family visit. There were also other models, such as P/F for a congratulatory visit and P/C for a condolence visit.
Different Uses in England In contrast, people in England used business cards for different purposes, primarily related to commerce. These cards were typically exchanged before or after work, aiming to establish the identity of every worker. In around 1830, business cards were made from pressed wood bark.
The Formalities of Business Cards The Industrial Revolution created a new perception, emphasizing the importance of exchanging contact information.
Modern Day Etiquette Over time, many of the etiquettes surrounding business cards have faded, but some rules still persist:
- Business cards should never be handed over with the left hand.
- They should not be written on.
- Cards should be translated into the appropriate language, depending on location and need.
- They should not be handed over upside down.
- Business cards must be in pristine condition when given; they should never be damaged or defective.
Below are some examples of the evolution of business cards, social cards, and business cards throughout history.
