Formal to Client
Workplace · Card
You
はじめまして。こちら、私の名刺でございます。よろしくお願いいたします。
はじめまして。こちら、わたしのめいしでございます。よろしくおねがいいたします。
How do you do. Here is my business card. I'm very pleased to meet you.
Romaji: Hajimemashite. Kochira, watashi no meishi de gozaimasu. Yoroshiku onegai itashimasu. / Reply Romaji: Kochira koso, yoroshiku onegaishimasu. Dōzo.
Reply
こちらこそ、よろしくお願いします。あ、私のもどうぞ。
こちらこそ、よろしくおねがいします。あ、わたしのもどうぞ。
Likewise, pleased to meet you. And here's mine.
Gesture & etiquette
Hold card with both thumbs on top edges, text facing the recipient; bow to about 30 degrees as you offer it simultaneously — both parties often exchange at the same time; receive their card with both hands and read it briefly before placing it on the table in front of you.
The business card ritual (名刺交換, meishi kōkan) is one of Japan's most important professional customs. Present and receive cards with both hands and a slight bow. Never write on, fold, or immediately pocket the card — during the meeting, lay it respectfully on the table in front of you. Treating the card carelessly is seen as disrespecting the person.