How to Choose a Business Card Holder | Three Golden Rules to Make a Great First Impression

Are you having trouble choosing a business card holder?
Many people must be worried about things like, "What business etiquette should I have?" and "Will I make a bad first impression?"

In this article, we will thoroughly explain how to choose a business card holder that exudes trust, including the material, color, functionality, price range, and usage etiquette.

After reading this article, you will be able to choose a business card holder that will make you appear as a capable person in any business situation, such as business meetings, job hunting, or gifts.

Why the right business card holder determines your sense of trust

Your business card holder can tell you about your business etiquette

A business card holder is a business item that can improve your impression. If you want to be trusted by others, it's important to be aware that you're being watched, just like with a suit and tie.

For example, when handing over your business card at a business meeting, simply handling a luxurious leather business card holder with a calm demeanor will improve your impression.

Paying attention to even the smallest details is the way of a "mature business person."

This type of business card holder is a no-no

When it comes to business card holders, appearance, condition, and design are all factors that are evaluated. By choosing a clean and calm item, people will think, "This person is trustworthy," without even having to say anything.

• Cheap business card holder

Vinyl and flimsy business card holders are inexpensive, but they run the risk of being viewed with disdain.

• Damaged business card holder

If the corners are worn, the surface is peeling, or the item is out of shape, you may be seen as someone who does not take care of it.

• An overly flashy business card holder

Bright primary colors, large logos, and unique designs are often inappropriate for the time, place, and occasion, and are not suitable for first meetings.

Does your business card holder really make a good impression? Three rules for choosing one

Point 1. The unknown differences in impression between genuine leather, synthetic leather, and metal

Differences in materials not only affect appearance, but also the impression they give to others. Especially when meeting someone for the first time, it is not uncommon for your impression of that person to be determined within a few seconds.

• Genuine leather

This is a material recommended for all business people. It is generally durable and changes over time as you use it. With its subdued luster and pleasant texture, it gives the impression of being a careful and trustworthy person.

• Synthetic leather

Although it is an inexpensive and readily available material, depending on the material, the surface may peel off easily or look cheap. This can give the impression of being "young" or "light" to discerning people, especially superiors and business partners.

• Made of metal

It is suitable for those who want to give a stylish impression.
However, many metal business card holders do not have dividers, so there is a risk that your business cards will get mixed up with those of other people. When choosing a holder, be sure to consider both practicality and design.

The material you use will unconsciously shape your impression. That's why it's important to design an impression that suits your position and the people you're meeting.

Point 2. Color and design are key to your sense of style

When choosing a business card holder for business use, it is best to choose one with a subdued color and design.

For example, muted colors such as black, dark brown, and navy tend to make a good impression in any industry and convey a sense of safety and reliability. On the other hand, bright colors such as red and yellow, and designs with patterns, give off a casual impression and may be deemed inappropriate depending on the company culture.

Point 3. Functionality is more important than appearance

Even if a business card case looks good, it will make people less trustworthy if it is difficult to use. Exchanging business cards is an occasion that requires a smooth exchange. If you are slow to take out your business card, you will give the impression that you are "a person who is not organized."

Difficulty in taking out business cards = not looking smart

If your business card gets caught or you are using a business card holder that makes it difficult to take out with one hand, the flow of the conversation will be interrupted and your movements will be unnatural.The important thing is to be able to take out your business card smoothly and hand it over with a natural gesture.

To do this, it is a good idea to choose a business card holder that is not only easy to open and close, but also has enough capacity so that you do not run out of business cards .

Pockets and dividers

If you only have one pocket and your business cards are all mixed up, you'll have to rummage through them every time you need to take one out.

Having a divider to separate your own business card from the one you receive will make your actions after exchanging cards smoother and give you a smart impression.

"Delta Pocket" to store business cards you receive

After receiving a business card, if you put it in your pocket or store it in a way that it gets folded, the other person will feel that you are treating them carelessly and will feel uncomfortable.

If you use a business card holder with a delta pocket that prevents business cards from falling out , you can subtly make a good impression by saying, "I take good care of the business cards I receive."

While appearance is important when it comes to business card holders, ease of use is actually the key factor that determines trust. Choosing a holder that takes into account not only the shape and material, but also the situation in which it will be used is the shortcut to making a good impression.

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Isn't "price = right answer"? How to choose the right business card holder

Varies by price

The average price for a business card holder is said to be around 10,000 yen. The materials and brand vibes available vary greatly depending on the price range, so it's important to determine the "class" that suits your position and the occasion.

• 3,000 to 5,000 yen

Many are made of synthetic leather or fabric, giving them a casual look. There are also genuine leather products that offer good value for money, so it's important to look at the quality.
This price range is recommended for those who do not exchange business cards frequently or who want to try it out at an affordable price.

• 5,000 yen to 10,000 yen

Many business card holders are made of genuine leather, and the stitching and finishing are more careful. Many trusted business brands can be found in this price range.

• Over 10,000 yen

We are starting to stock business card holders with high quality and brand recognition.
However, it is important to choose carefully, as brand logos that are too large or designs that are too flashy may ruin the first impression.

STYLE= offers a wide range of business card holders in a wide price range, from around 3,000 yen to over 10,000 yen.
We offer items that are perfect for a variety of occasions, with a focus on simple design and high quality.

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How to handle your business card holder tests your common sense

Common traits of people who are appreciated when handing out their business cards

The way you handle your business card directly affects how others perceive you. You should pay particular attention to how you handle your card and how you handle it.

Out of business cards

Being unable to hand over your business card to someone you meet for the first time is a major disadvantage for a business person.
To avoid running out of business cards, it is essential to always have enough on hand and carry them neatly in a business card holder.

Take out a business card directly from your pocket or wallet

If you hand over a crumpled business card, it may make the other person feel uncomfortable.
The basic action of carefully taking your business card out of your holder is an important etiquette that supports your credibility.

Three common mistakes when accepting a business card

Receive with one hand

A business card is said to be the "face of the other person." If you receive it with one hand, it will seem disrespectful, so always receive it politely with both hands.

Put it away immediately

If you put the business card you received immediately in your card case or pocket, it will be perceived as a sign that you are not interested or that you do not value it. The ideal time to put the business card away is after the business meeting is over.

A first-class man takes care of his business card holder as a tool

Leather maintenance habits you'll regret not knowing

Leather business card holders are a material that becomes more comfortable in your hand and develops a unique character the more you use them.
For example, regular wiping of genuine leather business card holders is effective. Simply wiping off dust and dirt with a soft cloth will help keep the leather in good condition.
Additionally, applying a thin layer of leather moisturizing cream about once a month will help prevent cracks caused by dryness.

People tend to think that leather is difficult to care for, but a little bit of effort goes a long way in giving it a sense of elegance.
Treating your business card holder with care will help you appear more trustworthy.

Storage and handling rules to prevent shortening the lifespan

Don't stuff your business cards too tightly

If you put more business cards into the holder than the storage space allows, the leather will stretch and lose its shape, and the lid may not close properly. If you exchange business cards frequently, choose a large-capacity holder that can hold a lot of business cards.

If you accidentally get it wet...

Immediately wipe off any excess moisture with a dry cloth and dry in a well-ventilated area in the shade. Drying quickly with a hair dryer or in direct sunlight can cause the leather to shrink or crack.

Q&A to clear up your doubts about business card holders

What color can't you go wrong with when job hunting?

When it comes to job hunting, black is the safest and most reliable color. It gives a calm impression and is not considered rude in any industry or occupation.

The reason is that dark colors such as black and dark brown are considered to be "neat" in formal settings.

On the other hand, bright colors and flashy designs may make some companies see you as someone who doesn't know business etiquette.

Is it okay to give it as a gift?

Business card holders make great gifts, especially for special occasions like job offers or promotions.

The reason is that a business card holder is a practical and thoughtful gift, as it is a tool that supports the recipient's future success.

However, you should be careful not to choose without considering the other person's preferences or the time, place, and occasion, as it may be difficult to use or may give the impression that it is inappropriate for the occasion.

For example, a simple design business card holder made of genuine leather in a subdued color can be used by a wide range of age groups and occupations.

It conveys the feelings of "we support you" and "we hope you do your best," making it a gift that will remind the giver of the giver every time it is used.

Is it not okay to have something with a logo on it?

A small logo is fine, but depending on the company, it may be best to avoid business card holders with logos that are too conspicuous.

When choosing brand-name items, it is important to keep in mind a casual look that will fit in with the business atmosphere.

In order to instill trust, the right approach is to focus on the invisible aspects.

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[Summary] The way you choose your business card holder determines whether you are a "trustworthy person."

A business card holder is not just a storage tool.
It is an important first impression tool that silently conveys the user's sense, business manners, and trustworthiness.

Five important points from this article

• Genuine leather creates a sense of reliability and elegance
• Black and dark colors give a good impression regardless of the industry.
• A highly functional business card holder will make you look smart
• Cleanliness and good condition give the impression of a "polite personality"
• Observing business card etiquette will help you gain business trust

Revamping your business card holder is the quickest way to improve your business image.
Whether or not someone thinks "this person seems trustworthy" during a business meeting, interview, or first meeting is determined by a split-second decision.

To make the most of that moment, start by taking another look at your business card holder today.

Action steps you can take now:

• Check the material, condition, and color of your business card holder
• Objectively review your business card holder from the perspective of "Does it seem trustworthy?"
• If you're unsure, check out STYLE='s lineup of business card holders.
• Choose your favorite piece and keep it ready for your next business trip.

The “perfect appearance” will bring you results.
Update your business card holder and make a great first impression.