As more and more companies continue to internationalize, the world is becoming smaller and smaller. More business executives take international business trips to establish new clients, research foreign investment, or to target additional and/or emerging markets. Yet editor of "Do's and Taboos Around the World," Roger E. Axtell states that, "Most of the English speaking world remains as cheerfully monolingual as Queen Victoria's parakeet." Axtell isn't just referring to language skills, but also to cultural sensitivity and respect when travelling or conducting business abroad. This includes something as small as business card etiquette.

A business card is one's first impression when meeting with important clients or associates in a foreign country, and each country you visit will have protocol to follow that will show proper respect for an individual's culture and rank. The following are some helpful hints taken from Axtell's "Do's and Taboos" to aid you in your development of a solid and consistent global image when travelling in Asia.

THE PACIFIC AND ASIA

You should arrange to have business cards printed in English and the local language. Business people will find they will use many cards during their visit to each country.

JAPAN/CHINA (PRC)

When meeting with a group of Japanese business people, you do not need to wait to be asked to present your card, you can feel free to give it at anytime. When presenting your business card, you should hold your card with both hands, so that the recipient can read it, then bow and say your name. If you are presenting your card to several individuals at once, be sure to present your card to the highest ranked individual first and then follow rank protocol. In the People's Republic of China, it is preferable to present your business card before you ask for the other's and you will not be deemed impolite if you present your card before you are asked. When accepting a Japanese or a Chinese person's card, hold the card with both hands, bow and thank the person to express gratitude for the opportunity of meeting them. It is considered rude to put the card away immediately.

KOREA

Upon receiving a business card from a Korean person, you should nod your head to show respect and also express thanks for the opportunity of meeting them. It is appropriate to put the card away immediately after receiving it. In fact, it would seem impolite or ignorant to look at the card too long after receiving it. It is also preferable to present your card to a new acquaintance before you ask for theirs. When meeting with Korean business people, present with both hands the Korean side of your card facing towards the recipient and nod your head gently. The nodding of the head is especially important if meeting with senior individuals.