Meishi
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158)
Fri 2008/11/28 11:39
"Meishi" [名刺] is the Japanese word for a name/business card and is a fundamental item of Japanese business.
Thought we'd take a look at my latest meishi design and while we're at it have a gander at meishi from my previous positions.
Thought we'd take a look at my latest meishi design and while we're at it have a gander at meishi from my previous positions.
My new meishi - Mirai on the default Japanese side with Haruka on the English side.
Folks in Japan can order name cards at Tokyo Meishi Land - just over 1,000 yen for 100 double sided full color cards. They have a template you download where you use Illustrator to make the data.
Images should be embedded 300dpi and submitted in CMYK color separation with all fonts outlined. They print on demand and ship the same day.
Before I had the girls on the card I used to wonder how some folk would view us - especially when I handed one to the British Ambassador to Japan ^^;
But our main clients are in Japan and the Japanese seem to love the designs which reflect out company culture. I guess they wouldn't be contacting us for their instance of Mirai Gaia if they thought we were strange.
Folks in Japan can order name cards at Tokyo Meishi Land - just over 1,000 yen for 100 double sided full color cards. They have a template you download where you use Illustrator to make the data.
Images should be embedded 300dpi and submitted in CMYK color separation with all fonts outlined. They print on demand and ship the same day.
Before I had the girls on the card I used to wonder how some folk would view us - especially when I handed one to the British Ambassador to Japan ^^;
But our main clients are in Japan and the Japanese seem to love the designs which reflect out company culture. I guess they wouldn't be contacting us for their instance of Mirai Gaia if they thought we were strange.
And here is my name card for dannychoo.com which I can give out a bit more freely and does not contain my phone number. The next version will be double sided with Haruka-chan.
This is what my first business card for Mirai used to look like. The cost was something like 5,000 yen for 100 which was done by a printing company. The quality is better but I much prefer the Tokyo Meishi Land double sided 1,000 yen job.
One of the reasons why I decided to have the Suenaga sisters on the company business card was because when I gave out my card, the other person would see the dannychoo.com Mirai-chan card and want one of those too ^^;
I discovered that having the Suenaga girls on our card makes an impact and helps the other person remember us from an evening of networking and receiving a load of other business cards. They are usually the first talking point.
Its also easy to talk about dannychoo.com and the achievements made here which immediately leads to "where can I get my hands on Mirai Gaia?"
We still dont have an official site which is ironic because we are a web development company ^^; The reason is because we have not had a reason to showcase out goods because all business is through folks we know or through introductions - have enough clients lined up which will last us quite a while. We do have a makeshift page for http://mirai.fm though.
One of the reasons why I decided to have the Suenaga sisters on the company business card was because when I gave out my card, the other person would see the dannychoo.com Mirai-chan card and want one of those too ^^;
I discovered that having the Suenaga girls on our card makes an impact and helps the other person remember us from an evening of networking and receiving a load of other business cards. They are usually the first talking point.
Its also easy to talk about dannychoo.com and the achievements made here which immediately leads to "where can I get my hands on Mirai Gaia?"
We still dont have an official site which is ironic because we are a web development company ^^; The reason is because we have not had a reason to showcase out goods because all business is through folks we know or through introductions - have enough clients lined up which will last us quite a while. We do have a makeshift page for http://mirai.fm though.
And a look at my business cards from previous employment. First up is Microsoft where I was a CGM Product Manager managing some of the Windows Live services.
Here are my business cards from my time at Amazon in Japan and Seattle. Site Manager in Japan and Manager for the Global Asin Metrics team in Seattle. Asin = Amazon Standard Identification Number which we assigned to each and every product.
Ah, before I forget, If you are planning on doing business in Japan, you need to learn how to hand out business cards in the correct way - handing one out incorrectly will immediately give you and your company a bad impression.
I see so many gaijin just fling out their business cards - needless to say they tend to be the ones who don't do too well. See the video below of how business cards should be exchanged.
Ah, before I forget, If you are planning on doing business in Japan, you need to learn how to hand out business cards in the correct way - handing one out incorrectly will immediately give you and your company a bad impression.
I see so many gaijin just fling out their business cards - needless to say they tend to be the ones who don't do too well. See the video below of how business cards should be exchanged.
This is my first business card in Japan. I was looking after Web Marketing in Japan, China, Taiwan, HongKong and Korea thus the many versions of my name.
Cant seem to find my Japan Airlines meishi anywhere. Maybe back at my mums place in London.
Cant seem to find my Japan Airlines meishi anywhere. Maybe back at my mums place in London.
The gray card is the first personal name card I made for myself after arriving in Japan - made in Microsoft Word and printed on an Epson printer with paper from Tokyu Hands. I also help out at Akihabara News from time to time.
And a rummage around some of the other business card designs in the meishi folder.
One of the nicest meishi I've received from the boss of Moe Japan. I wish my previous bosses looked like this.
Kotobukiya have a cool meishi too which has their photo and opens out.
Inside the Kotobukiya meishi contains details of the other stuff that they do.
The meishi that inspired me to have Mirai-chan on the company card - Joy Max from Nitro Plus.
Name cards are not only useful for business but for any type of networking. If you have a card, it makes it easier for other other party to remember you.
Business is all about who you know but life in general is also about who you know. Even if you are not working nor have your own business, I still recommend you carry around a personal name card. Having an name card will help you connect with other people easily.
Even if you cant play around with Illustrator, you can easily make cards online with services like Moo.com. Invest a bit O cash and you will discover just how useful a name card can be.
Once you start to network, you will accumulate a ton of business cards which are a pain to maintain. What I do is follow up by sending mail to each person I met the following day - don't leave it more than a week or you will end up not following up. if a person replies, it shows they are interested in maintaining a relationship and once their mail comes in, their name and address is automatically added to your address book (for Gmail). What you can do then is to use the address export function in LinkedIn and add that person to your list of business contacts. I can use LinkedIn to manage my business comrades by region and can see who they know and as for introductions if needed. Its also much better than managing your contacts through physical meishi which you can simply search.
Name cards are not only useful for business but for any type of networking. If you have a card, it makes it easier for other other party to remember you.
Business is all about who you know but life in general is also about who you know. Even if you are not working nor have your own business, I still recommend you carry around a personal name card. Having an name card will help you connect with other people easily.
Even if you cant play around with Illustrator, you can easily make cards online with services like Moo.com. Invest a bit O cash and you will discover just how useful a name card can be.
Once you start to network, you will accumulate a ton of business cards which are a pain to maintain. What I do is follow up by sending mail to each person I met the following day - don't leave it more than a week or you will end up not following up. if a person replies, it shows they are interested in maintaining a relationship and once their mail comes in, their name and address is automatically added to your address book (for Gmail). What you can do then is to use the address export function in LinkedIn and add that person to your list of business contacts. I can use LinkedIn to manage my business comrades by region and can see who they know and as for introductions if needed. Its also much better than managing your contacts through physical meishi which you can simply search.
- Akihabara News - Gadgetry from Japan (Subscribe)
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part time illustrationist, doll clothing seamstress
Nice article Danny! I'm glad you talked about the correct way to hand out/receive name cards in Japan, that was one of the first things I learnt when I visited Japan for the first time many years ago! :) Also I also remembered must put the namecards received in a safe place as a form of respect to the person presenting it to you ^^. I recently used Zazzle to make some "skinny cards" (Similar to moo cards?) but I think the font may be a bit hard to read for people with poor eyesight lol. Hmmm reminds me I should try to save some moolah and make some stickers ^^! *bowbow* yoroshiku onegashimasu http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3209/3047732388_cc6f92780b_o.jpg
(ID #389130) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:15
student, vexillologist
For Japanese classes, we always have to make up some sort of Meshi. What I did is I put my name in English and Japanese on one side one, along with a brief bio and email address. Then, I put the crest of an organization I belong to, 日本旗章学協会, at the top corner. I did everything using Inkscape and also Photoshop. I printed the cards at my house using a kit from a local store. I passed them out and people found it neat. I also did that when I went to Japan and also going to conferences. I like them, but I wish that above site dealt with Americans.
(ID #389142) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:24
Night Stalker
I dont have one...Well wait i dont have a bussiness..hmmp! LOL!^_^
(ID #389147) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:27
CEO MIrai Inc
You dont need a business to carry a personal name card ;-)
(ID #389170) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:36
Night Stalker
Really!? i guessed i might need one...gotta think of a cool theme for my non Bussiness Business Card..
(ID #390302) Posted on 2008/11/29 01:42
student, vexillologist
It's a great way to just network with people and make friends.
(ID #389196) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:48
Otaku, High School Student, Aspiring Animator
Very educational Danny. Will have to remember this if I move to Japan someday like I hope. Never thought there'd be a wrong way to hand out business cards. Maybe I should try handing out cards like this in America.....
(ID #389153) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:30
student
i wanna bizeeness card!!!
(ID #389155) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:30
http://animenlife.blogspot.com
Im considering doing/order some Meishi for myself.. ^_^
(ID #393075) Posted on 2008/12/01 05:23
Student Otaku (ITM Student) and ACG NA Staff
WOW!!!!! I want a Danny Choo busniess card... Well, I'm thinking of making something like that as some bloggers do that. So many buniess cards you have Danny!!!!! Like you say, if you give out business cards, people will remember you and people might even spread the word about you. if you do that when you have a site, it's the same too, people might even visit it too.
(ID #389160) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:33
Amateur novelist
My thoughts exactly, pretty much; I remember hearing Double from Furu Anime Panikku talk about the same thing after Danny's blogging event in Singapore. And once more, this is making me feel as if I should get a name card myself, except I have yet to actually get up and do it... >_>
(ID #391479) Posted on 2008/11/30 00:24
research student to be
Nice name cards~ But I wonder, do you need one as well as a student, just for personal?
(ID #389162) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:34
CEO MIrai Inc
I recommend that you do - I did ^^
(ID #389172) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:37
research student to be
Ooh. Then I'll make one for myself. =D
(ID #389278) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:34
It's nice to have a namecard for yourself. Gives that professional feel. but seriously, I like that Nitro+ namecard more. :P
(ID #390406) Posted on 2008/11/29 02:56
So did I. It's a good tool for socialising with people, even if you have no business you could add a site address, or contact number. ^^;
(ID #389306) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:49
Nice article Danny, still haven't got around to making myself one ^^;.... This site (http://faveup.com/) has some nice stuff for anyone who needs some inspiration for their design.
(ID #389164) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:34
ack... get rid of the )
(ID #389167) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:35
NEET (Desktop Support / Admin)
It's great that you carried your dannychoo.com branding onto your business cards. I like the vertical design alignment. It's an eye catcher. I wonder how these type of business cards readily get scanned and then imported to an address book, such as Outlook. Would OCR capture the vertically aligned text?
(ID #389165) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:35
I wonder if they fit in the Western-style business card scanners?
(ID #389199) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:48
Nice cards! I wonder though...does having anime characters on the cards not detract from their 'professionalism'? I realise of course that Dannychoo.com is heavily associated with those sorts of things, but have you ever had any negative reactions by including cute girls on your cards?
(ID #389166) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:35
CEO MIrai Inc
Not at all - which is why business is booming for us ^o^
(ID #389174) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:37
Nice to know ^^. I always like to break away from the norm. I'll bear it in mind when I create some in the future!
(ID #389197) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:48
student, vexillologist
If your business is centered on this concept, then of course, go with it. But, if you are a car maker and you use race queens, then that is when it becomes a bit odd.
(ID #389202) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:50
Certainly! But having a strong logo and/or character could go a long way. It's not everyone's cup of tea though. Personally I would remember a company more if they had a strong character to associate with as well as just the corporate logo.
(ID #389223) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:01
amatuer bum
I believe it can detract professionalism in the eye's of some select individuals, but that would be a rare case. I think danny is totally onto having a cute mascot on his cards =D Mascots are becoming quite the thing to have. Just look at domo-kun. It gives more of an impressionable face to people. I know I would have an easier time remembering the face of Mirai-chan than I would of danny and/or remember him as the guy with the ultra moe mascot.
(ID #389236) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:12
Youtube link under the embedded video has a </div> tag in it breaking the link. Personal name cards, like one a HS/college girl might carry and give out to guys is what surprised me years ago when I first became familiar with Japanese meishi practices ^^
(ID #389182) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:41
CEO MIrai Inc
Thanks and fixed ^^;
(ID #389190) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:45
Nice of you to share again Danny. I used to think getting your own name card was a big deal - what's also important is who you give it too. There's no point getting 1,000 cards ordered but no one to give it to. Having name cards forces you to network too - in a sense.
(ID #389185) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:44
Having Mirai and Haruka on the cards makes it easy to distinguish your meishi from the rest, good plan...only personal name card I have is my drivers license...
(ID #389189) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:44
I haven't seen any meishi like that here yet. Most are the usual, plain, strictly business style with two sides. I like yours. Would be nice to get some here. With all the new expats and Japanese stores opening up around here, perhaps they can be found here. If not, I wonder if there is any printer in Japan that would ship to the States. Meishi do not fit in the standard business card filing systems but there are trading card holders that have more than enough room. Ah, I keep forgetting to look for them at the Daiso!
(ID #389191) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:45
student, vexillologist
Question, what dimensions are your meishi?
(ID #389210) Posted on 2008/11/28 11:54
Student, Otaku, She-Geek(Sheek lol)
We were taught how to give out Meishi properly in my Japanese class!!! If I remember correctly, the name has to be facing the person your giving it too and you fingers can't cover any info(name etc)up. Right? Desho?
(ID #389221) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:00
Scientist, unemployed.
Have no business cards. When I was a little kid, I had a 500 card box of them for my detective agency (Yes, I was a weird kid.) I've been considering making some, but they are expensive, and I'm poor.
(ID #389224) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:01
Illustrator & Designer
I've been procrastinating in printing my new business card. The last one I printed was a simple plain single sided orange card with my freelance business name and contact details on it. I mainly got it to pass it around when I went to the San Diego Comicon but no one really cares about business cards as much as the Japanese I think. Another reason I've been putting off printing the new design is I can't decide what image I want to go with the company logo. I don't have a mascot but I want to have some of my artwork on my business card so it represents my illustration skills. I'm always interested in looking at business card designs and have seen some really cool designs.
(ID #389227) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:04
Part trooper, part -timer, 100% loser...
So that's how you give out meishi in Japan... I didn't know there was a procedure on how to hand your meishi... I too wish I had a boss like this ^^: LOL http://www.flickr.com/photos/dannychoo/3064923198/sizes/o/
(ID #389231) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:09
nice meishi ^.^ .I have never seen any meishi with these cute pictures on them , my area only has plain old meishi ^.^ .I especially like the nitro+ name card ^.^
(ID #389246) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:15
college student
wait! does the boss of Moe Japan really look like that!?! omg! i know what im gonna do when i need a new job!
(ID #389247) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:16
amatuer bum
I don't have much of a use for cards right now myself. Not really in a position for it. However once I am done with school (3-4 years =/ ), you can count on me loading up on them, especially if I make it into the JET program when I get my BA. Then I am definitely going to want to open up a network and make connections so I got some leverage when it comes time to wrap up that JET experience. In the mean time, I am going to focus on building up the skills I am going to want to put out with those cards.
(ID #389251) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:18
Is there any difference between Meishi and Western business cards?
(ID #389257) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:21
Student
I have no business card yet but I was in the end of making one. Since %%http://www.howagirlfigures.com/,Dancing Queen%% made a post on her blog, I decided to make one for my mom. My mom's job is a new manager of somewhat job. XD (I don't actually ask the job she is in). Then when I saw her post in the Member News, I decided to take a look at her samples. Now I just need a nice printer and the paper(?).
(ID #389264) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:26
Student
ACK! I the link didn't work. Anyways, sorry for this, since I don't know exactly how to make a link in the comment box. -_-;
(ID #389268) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:27
university film student
For a link in comments, just type the Url and it'll do it automatically. Note that spaces don't work very well. In this case, you just type: http://www.howagirlfigures.com/ Can't hide it behind text, as far as I know.
(ID #389416) Posted on 2008/11/28 13:31
Webdev, internet contents, music
I thought you have to return all name cards when you leave a job, because company name cards are a proof of employment in Japan. Guess you took pics of them before returning them ;)
(ID #389270) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:28
CEO MIrai Inc
Not true - I took these recently ;-)
(ID #389283) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:37
Webdev, internet contents, music
Actually I keep some too ;)
(ID #390047) Posted on 2008/11/28 22:05
But.. What am I supposed to write on it if I'm still a student? O.o And exchanging Meishi looks so serious.. Must it be that way?
(ID #389272) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:30
Troubleshooter, Universal Exports
What year student you are, your major and minor, department your major is in and personal contact info.
(ID #389284) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:38
you could go as simple as just a name and an email.... with a logo design or mascot etc.
(ID #389290) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:42
Hmm.. Sounds nice. Since I'm only form four, I don't think I can write anything else on it --"
(ID #389725) Posted on 2008/11/28 16:14
My name card is so simple T_T that I wanna hide it when I go to a client sell products :(
(ID #389280) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:36
marvin (Registered on 2006/12/25 00:54)
I only have name cards for work. have to make one for personal use as well. btw I wish I had a boss who looks like the girl on the Moe Japan Meishi as well. ^^
(ID #389292) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:42
daichouginga in Byston Well, the land between the earth and the sea (Registered on 2008/06/04 10:28)
The Sword of Magus
Interesting. This is the first time I heard that even students have their own personal cards. Back in my homeland, that's not popular or maybe I'm just ignorant, lol.
(ID #389294) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:43
Can I have the Nitro+ card ^^;; ? Chaos; Head + Rimi = <3
(ID #389296) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:45
Internet Media
What are the standard dimensions for meishi in Japan? In the US, the standard is 2 x 3.5 inches.
(ID #389298) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:46
all i have is official business cards the company gives in their fixed formats.
(ID #389299) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:47
I don't really have a name card at the moment... will make one if I think the time is right. I love the meishi for Moe Japan and Koto... ^^
(ID #389303) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:48
Troubleshooter, Universal Exports
I was just thinking about this yesterday... I need something new for university and for photography. I want a new design as well... (^^;)
(ID #389313) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:52
Pseudo-Graphic Designer, 太もも Appreciator
I made a business card during my college period for the classes... but didn't go any further than that. Haven't made my own after that, felt like it should be just for people who have their own business/freelancers. I may make one then... plus it'll give me an excuse to get one of those anime-related card-cases they sell at Hobby Search XD
(ID #389319) Posted on 2008/11/28 12:55
Otaku / Student in Computer Science
I want to buy meishi on the website that you gave us...but I can't read T-T Please some help!
(ID #389350) Posted on 2008/11/28 13:06
五〇一軍团 TK8316 Singapore Garrison Public Relations Officer
nice danny, u have a chinese name as well! ^^;
(ID #389388) Posted on 2008/11/28 13:20
DCX001-Prototype
His chinese name look very very familiar, but I just can't recall it no matter how deep I dive into my memory...............
(ID #389516) Posted on 2008/11/28 14:07
Student, Bioresearch Assistant, WAVE VP Communications
I'll probably get some next year, when my blog gets well known enough that I can switch host and get my own domain name. As well, by next year I'd know what I'm specializing in.
(ID #389401) Posted on 2008/11/28 13:24
System Design Engineering (UWaterloo)
Smart Danny...if you gave away your phone number, I would have called you .^_^. Nice cards you got there 6_^/
(ID #389440) Posted on 2008/11/28 13:42
Number Cruncher
well, i've got bog standard company ones... same as the rest of the 1,000,000 other workers here in my firm.
(ID #389456) Posted on 2008/11/28 13:48
Nyoro-n...
100 for 1000 yen, thats a good price, I wonder if there are such prices ard here lol Personal name card eh, interesting but I do not know what information I can put inside... I dun have a blog or site T_T
(ID #389462) Posted on 2008/11/28 13:49
Student artist
Im creating a amateur media company soon so Im going to get myself business card. Would be nice if I could get danny business card.
(ID #389480) Posted on 2008/11/28 13:54
JR. College Student
Very interesting. I don't think I have anything to put on a business card though. I'm just a student...
(ID #389500) Posted on 2008/11/28 14:02
DCX001-Prototype
Great start-up article for comrades to understand the needs of getting their own name card ^_^ Personally, I have different name card for each & every type of the businesses I involved, so I always carry around few types of biz cards with me, & my lawyers' card too in case I get into some trouble ^^; My first ever name card was when I'm 11 years old during elementary school, I got it via a mail order catalog together with classmates. Then 16 years old I designed my own business card. I pay a lot of attention on my cards design & printed quality. I'd printed cards from various range of materials like thin film, transparent, 260gsm, water/tear-proof coated, & even on plastic card (credit/membership card type). 1 of my biz card have my portrait on it ^^ When I hand out my card, I hold it on both hand with my written detail facing them, bow a little bit, after receive their card on hand, read through carefully on both side.
(ID #389506) Posted on 2008/11/28 14:03
Hotdog Repairman
I remember learning the method of handing of business cards in my Japanese culture course, but it was a little different with a two hand handoff and bow. I guess that's old school.
(ID #389549) Posted on 2008/11/28 14:20
Troubleshooter, Universal Exports
I was taught the same. I still tend to do it with both hands, especially if a higher up.
(ID #389669) Posted on 2008/11/28 15:32
Email & Network Support/Administration
I don't have a business card for my day job, which is fine. BUt I'm have a darn time trying to come up with a logo for my personal business/side project.
(ID #389550) Posted on 2008/11/28 14:20
Eroge blogger
Oh wow, I'm loving that Nitro+ meishi. Ya, we learned how to properly exchange meishi in class too. I don't know, it was pretty intuitive...
(ID #389574) Posted on 2008/11/28 14:33
Daigakusei [Consular and Diplomatic Affairs]
tons of uber nice meishi you got there danny~ the Moe Japan meishi is the best among those pictured and of course the dannychoo meishi is certainly awesome as well^^ i sure do hope that these kind of meishis spread worldwide and replace the traditional and boring ones~
(ID #389599) Posted on 2008/11/28 14:41
Studio Bleach founder/owner
Yeah... I decided that when I get everything organized, when it comes to my studio, I need to get business cards made. That, and an actual page... and not just a MySpace page (debating about Facebook). Hmmmm... Now I need to think of a great idea for my cards.
(ID #389643) Posted on 2008/11/28 15:11
Engineer-wannabe
Wow,Moe Japan boss meishi is Greatzz! XD
(ID #389646) Posted on 2008/11/28 15:12
Pokemon master
I remember the first week of Japanese class we learned how to properly introduce ourselves. Business cards/Meishi were part of the lesson and our teacher made sure we did everything right. I still remember her telling us "No, don't just take it and put in in your back pocket!" Lol! I want the Nitro+ card!
(ID #389650) Posted on 2008/11/28 15:17
anime/cosplay events organizer
I have business cards and they are so very useful in networking ^^ I have tons of business cards from other people and until know I still have contacts with them and that's a great advice Danny on following up on them if they are interested to have some contact and relationship with you. I'll follow that great advice of yours ^____^
(ID #389654) Posted on 2008/11/28 15:22
Anime Store Owner, artist, Web master
I have business cards for my online health store but I still haven't made a set for my online anime store ^^;; I really need to get on the ball with that one.
(ID #389685) Posted on 2008/11/28 15:48
maybe some day in the future I'll have something established to where I could provide myself with the luxury of business cards, but for now I'll have to stick to being nameless to avoid making a fool out of myself. I don't feel I'm near the level where I can do something like this in life just yet.
(ID #389695) Posted on 2008/11/28 15:55
Student & Game Designer
thats a surprise I just designed my business/name card 2 days ago =)
(ID #389717) Posted on 2008/11/28 16:10
Great article! I didn't know that name cards were so important to have in Japan. Here in Estonia name cards are not so important, but still are used by many businessmen. Actually, I think that most have name cards, but they just don't use them often.
(ID #389737) Posted on 2008/11/28 16:22
Fresh Diploma Grad... enlistee.. soon
I'm so glad i brought along my club's name card... Although it's a shared one...The club is too poor to print for everyone... ... ...
(ID #389753) Posted on 2008/11/28 16:50
Fresh Diploma Grad... enlistee.. soon
Sorry double post... My friend really liked your name card alot... thanks for passing me another one... It's almost like a collectible... And by bring along, i mean to the workshop and the other press conferences... And 1000 for 100 is cheap!... We have to print atleast 300 to get that price here...
(ID #389756) Posted on 2008/11/28 16:52
Graphic Designer, Arke Knight, Yoko's No.1 Fan
Used to on the last company I'm in. I even design it with my boss... Memorable moments... The company I work in now don't supply us (me and my coworker) with name cards.
(ID #389763) Posted on 2008/11/28 16:58
Online Shop
Those meishi would not work too well in the states but they definitely suit really well in Japan I think. I want them both!
(ID #389782) Posted on 2008/11/28 17:20
Very nice! Wish I had a cute business card like that! I still don't have one to give out even though I've been at my current job for 3 years and they're suppose to supply me one.
(ID #389788) Posted on 2008/11/28 17:28
Graphic Design student | Receptionist | Otaku
Thank you very much for the informative article, Danny-san m(_ _)m Your meishi really stands out, such a lovely design ^-^ I've considered making my own card but, it's be best to do so once I officially start College, then I can list my course and so forth ^o^ Many students freelance in their second year but, as I'm already doing that now.. I'll hopefully be ale to advertise my skills.
(ID #389817) Posted on 2008/11/28 17:48
NEET (no, student, AND employed min. wage)
yes, I used to have and have used name cards before... At least those ones you can get at an arcade for like 500 yen or so. =P -they are perfect for luggage name tag
(ID #389826) Posted on 2008/11/28 17:59
Student and full-time otaku
Your cards have definately become nicer and nicer in design over time! Don't have any business cards yet, but I do plan on making them soonish ^^
(ID #389832) Posted on 2008/11/28 18:07
Photographer/Night Auditor
I've had business cards for some time now for my lil' side project hobby but I really need to get a business card holder and not keep the cards in my wallet. They are really handy to have. I'm trying to think of the place that I did mine at because I remember only paying like $20 for a box of 500 cards including shipping so it was a great deal as long as you had your own design.
(ID #389837) Posted on 2008/11/28 18:12
I don't have my own card, but I carry several general business cards from the company that I work for that do not have names on them to give to people I meet. The cards have all the necessary info on them so they are useful when someone asks me how they can get in contact with the business that I'm at. I keep one for myself too since it has the whole years calender on it.
(ID #389845) Posted on 2008/11/28 18:21
Video Reviewer of Anime Figures, Mecha and Merch (youtube.com/user/Actar576295)
Seeing that all the bloggers have name cards, I decided to make my own. Gonna finalize the design soon. :) I so want that Haruka namecard to complete my Danny Trading Card Collection! :)
(ID #389846) Posted on 2008/11/28 18:21
Medical Research and Design
I wouldn't think your business cards strange at all - but then again, I am otaku. I think that eyecatch and presentation of information is very important, plus, it's not like you have anything lewd on the card. Moe is a powerful think, after all. Makes me wish I had asked for one. D: It's cute~ I should put my order for my first cards soon, seeing this post should serve as a motivation.
(ID #389886) Posted on 2008/11/28 19:15
Unemployed Dollfie enthusiast
I love the Nitro + and good smile cards, so cute. I wish I had an excuse to need name or business cards XD;
(ID #389892) Posted on 2008/11/28 19:26
Student, part-time Haruhi wannabe (that bit about godhood etc)
Love the meishi with Haruka-chan, and the Moe Japan one too... Must say that I thought you were going to do a lecture on nouns (名詞)...
(ID #389930) Posted on 2008/11/28 19:58
I thought of that meishi also... hehe
(ID #390494) Posted on 2008/11/29 04:31
Physical Therapist
Oh boy how id like to snatch one of your buisess cards.I wouldnt mind Nitro+`s Card either ^^ Kotobukiyas card is pretty neat aswell even tough it doesnt feature Girls I havent seen the need for a meishi yet.Since im working in the health care buisness (LOL) as an employed physical therapist theres no need for it...Personal Use? I didnt do any networking yet...maybe ill make some in the future.Theres no need for one if the blog isnt atleast a bit known ^_^
(ID #389943) Posted on 2008/11/28 20:16
Great name card there ^^ Really loved the design, maybe I'll put some kawainess on mine too ^O^
(ID #389975) Posted on 2008/11/28 21:01
AdvDip Network Security - CCNA - Ironport - Security+
funny though i did work placement at a printing company who did everything from brochures, pamphlets, cards, business cards, placemats....well, anything that can be printed on paper maybe it's time i went back to say hi....or something *evil grin* a outstanding favour here or to....^^"
(ID #390000) Posted on 2008/11/28 21:22
former Emperor of Britannia
A refreshing article you have here danny. presentation and the way to hand them out really does play a huge role. Also simplicity on the business cards really does the trick as a sample your cards. Thankies for the heads up on matters such as this.
(ID #390034) Posted on 2008/11/28 21:56
Student
Well, the Nitro+ card is nice. Rimi leaves an impression on me! ^^ I'm not sure about name cards though as nobody around me does it. For me normally it would just involve exchanging phone no.s if there was "networking". I suppose it could be a confidence issue because I'm not as willing to stand out like that. I admit its a good practice though. I'm a student btw. ^^;
(ID #390051) Posted on 2008/11/28 22:10
business cards will become a thing of the past. i am pretty sure instead of cards, we will soone be handing out our barcodes to scanners. heck, i read on bbc that there are companies in japan specialising in printing out business contacts on of all things rice grains?
(ID #390100) Posted on 2008/11/28 23:07
IT Consultant
I made the mistake of receiving a card from a manager and putting it in my back pocket! Hey, what do you expect it was only my 2nd day in Japan! Although I haven't used one since... hmmmmm
(ID #390136) Posted on 2008/11/28 23:30
Japanese people should teach the rest of the world to exchange business cards especially during networking events
(ID #390144) Posted on 2008/11/28 23:35
I would prefer a card where the girls look more happy. After all people should be happy when they encounter Mirai Inc ^^
(ID #390150) Posted on 2008/11/28 23:39
Dyslexic Social Studies student, struggling gundam modeler and gamer
I guess I'll be having my own business card when I manage to finally become a lawyer someday... Should I think up of a design already?
(ID #390172) Posted on 2008/11/28 23:51
Great tip that i can use soon.
(ID #390183) Posted on 2008/11/29 00:01
I only have name cards issued by the company I'm working for. No personal name cards yet. Thanks Danny for your name card and signing on it too. ^^ Oh, finally know your Chinese name.
(ID #390185) Posted on 2008/11/29 00:02
I think I am still not in this world yet ^^; Nitro+ card is good! ^^ Maybe Danny should print Mirai in different poses?
(ID #390197) Posted on 2008/11/29 00:13
Hmm. Makes me want to get namecards for myself. With mascot, of course. ... But getting a mascot designed would likely turn me into a poor poor boy.
(ID #390224) Posted on 2008/11/29 00:35
硅谷一朵花 (Registered on 2008/04/20 20:54)
原來DANNY 的中文名字叫周國棟，DANNY 是新加坡人還是日本人？？？還是其他國家的，是生活在日本的本地人嗎？？
(ID #390274) Posted on 2008/11/29 01:21
Kinny Riddle (Registered on 2008/03/19 23:01)
I believe it is generally frowned upon for you to post in languages apart from English (and Japanese, for obvious reasons) in the English section of Danny's site. Don't ask me why. Anyway, to answer your questions, Danny is a Briton-Chinese living in Japan. His dad, the Jimmy Choo, hails from Penang, Malaysia, thus explaining the way his surname is spelt. BTW, 硅谷一朵花 , going off topic, that avatar isn't a photo of you is it? I hope it's not, because everytime I see this ridiculous-looking unclean shaven guy making such a stupid face, I have a very strong urge to punch my screen. lol
(ID #390437) Posted on 2008/11/29 03:23
Hey danny, you were in today's edition of our local paper! wow, you must be really fashionable to be included inside the Urban edition
(ID #390283) Posted on 2008/11/29 01:29
CEO MIrai Inc
That newspaper report is complete rubbish - don't beleive a word in it. They are truly evil people.
(ID #390305) Posted on 2008/11/29 01:44
五〇一軍团 TK8316 Singapore Garrison Public Relations Officer
u have seen it? what's it about?
(ID #390315) Posted on 2008/11/29 01:58
Indeed. It'd be nice to know what they got wrong, so we can go be all EMO RAGE RAAAR at them.
(ID #390334) Posted on 2008/11/29 02:14
haha, did they send you a copy, danny? it's mostly about what was in his bag at the time of the interview, i think.i suppose the highlights would be the kagami figma and the wallet which was handmade. now, how many people do you know can make their own wallets? danny sits next to a picture of a very muscular woman.
(ID #390340) Posted on 2008/11/29 02:17
Kinny Riddle (Registered on 2008/03/19 23:01)
I never realized "Choo" is 周. I figured your name had that Malaysian/Singaporean feel to it, considering your dad did hail from Penang, and only Malaysians/Singaporeans spell their Chinese surnames that way. Simply amazing Danny, you share the same surname as Chow Yun-fat and Stephen Chow. lol Funny I never received any of those meishi lessons in my Japanese lessons. Maybe it'll only be a matter of time.
(ID #390435) Posted on 2008/11/29 03:17
~Undine~
This reminds me I need to work on rehearsing the correct business card exchange in Japanese, I tend to forget it if I do not rehearse or repeat it regularly. ^^;; Also very interesting what you say about networking and even having personal name cards. I'll have to start working on this.
(ID #390504) Posted on 2008/11/29 04:44
Ninja / Engineer / Sensei / 魔法少女 (What!?! I can't be, I'm a guy...)
I don't have my own meishi, but I do know of (and how to do) the practice of handing them out. Kinda funny really. Should really get on this one and get a personal one, so it makes networking easier.
(ID #390552) Posted on 2008/11/29 05:38
I have quite a few business cards with simple designs though. My job has a few subsidiaries, so a card for each. I'll probably design a card with all the companies on it. It's quite a hassle bringing a few of each business card in your wallet :s
(ID #390611) Posted on 2008/11/29 06:55
Graphic Designer, Sistems ING
Well i need the cards for my buissness, mines are laminated, the look like a credit card basicly with the gold fish in it.
(ID #390864) Posted on 2008/11/29 12:46
Mahasiswa yang terdampar di Singapura.
Whoa.. i can't believe that even giving name card has to be done in a ritual in Japan... anyway, i saw the vid and one of them bow deeper and gave the meishi correctly, while the other one, only bow half-heartedly and gave her meishi like we normally do... Is that also the custom?? The one more in need, is the one who do it more politely???
(ID #391041) Posted on 2008/11/29 15:25
Student/Designer/Lv. 14 Combo Newbie
this just inspired me to design a card for my friend. he's about to launch a website this coming week to showcase some short films he's done. he has some screenplays that are floating around LA, trying to get picked up, and i think a personal business card would work well for him. we don't have the time to go down there and start networking, 'cause we're students first, everything else comes second. hmm... maybe we should head over there this summer and hand some cards out >_> cool stuff, thanks for sharing.
(ID #391103) Posted on 2008/11/29 16:26
Man, I want a business card. Maybe I'll make one when I get around to releasing my project.
(ID #391143) Posted on 2008/11/29 17:12
Polytechnic Senior, Bronze Lifesaving Trainee, Mech Designer, Pokemon Indexer.
Stragely enough i'm learning how to design my own name cards this year. What reason would an IT student require name cards elude me. :?
(ID #391144) Posted on 2008/11/29 17:13
Dog of the Country
my name card: http://flickr.com/photos/28809478@N06/3067056977/ Lol.. it's a 2 sided cut out name card. costs a bomb if you are not printing tons at one go. had problems with the printer too. Late delivery, poor printing and cutting quality (had to throw out half the amount that I ordered)... My next name card will be a normal 4 sided name card. ^_^;;
(ID #391188) Posted on 2008/11/29 18:03
ColdFusion Developer
I'll have to rethink how I do my next set of business cards as I prefer proper sized business cards instead of the ones I used with mini-cards from moo.com.
(ID #391373) Posted on 2008/11/29 22:53
Schoolkid
Woo, nice!
(ID #391428) Posted on 2008/11/29 23:44
A person who draws things.
I've been meaning to make some cards. Just need to figure out where to print them from and how I want to make them look.
(ID #391827) Posted on 2008/11/30 08:13
Engineer by weekdays, Hikki by weekends
Thanks danny for sharing various of non-common namecards. I'm thinking to make one too, especially when i go take photo of cosplayers. However, I do not know what to write/text on it. I mean my online nick, blog/flickr add, then?
(ID #391837) Posted on 2008/11/30 08:36
IT tech support
JUST DO ETTTTTTT
(ID #393036) Posted on 2008/12/01 03:48
An interesting article, thanks Danny. I personally don`t need name cards on my works, but always must have ID when on service , just in case...
(ID #391888) Posted on 2008/11/30 09:50
Student, Newbie Blogger, Aspiring Writer
Thanks Danny for sharing, I was inspired to make my personal name cards. ^^
(ID #391892) Posted on 2008/11/30 10:00
Fledgling repowriter
Yes, P Q R S, Ltd., an Illinois corporation, has always had a business card. Even if it did not tell you much about what we do. !=)# I always have them with me. But they're in English [only]. However, they have complete contact information about myself (real name, real address, real E-Mail Address). They're a standard, inexpensive design, obtained from Office Depot. I knew about the protocol for exchanging cards. It is tricky when one is carrying around a satchel, and suddenly encountering a moment when you are being prompted for an exchange. Having bi-lingual cards made when in Japan is a thought, but I wonder what to put on them.
(ID #392112) Posted on 2008/11/30 12:14
Artist/Blogger/Photographer
I like Moe Japan's meishi. Inspires me to make my own.
(ID #392720) Posted on 2008/11/30 22:34
IT tech support
wow! even danny-san is doing this. Thought i was feeling special for making mine XD You guys can check out my cards at: http://www.quazacolt.com/events/2008/11/acf08-coverage/ The reason of making them? handing them to May'N (Sheryl Nome anyone?) during AFA'08 autograph session which i had my diamond VIP pass to qualify for it. ...which i did XD
(ID #392729) Posted on 2008/11/30 22:54
Student
I find that many cosplayers in Japan exchange meishi with their sites and Cure IDs on them, so they can follow up on each other after the events. In the U.S. there isn't much of a "name card" culture so it's mostly restricted to business dealings. And nowadays everyone has a cell phone/handheld so the day of the business card may go like newspapers and letters. ^^;;
(ID #393137) Posted on 2008/12/01 06:35
I love your design on your meishi card. I think I will make a stack just to give it out to friends to network.
(ID #393542) Posted on 2008/12/01 12:30
MI Manager, Blogger and Newswriter
Your meishi card is great Danny, nice job. I wish mine was cool like yours
(ID #393742) Posted on 2008/12/01 14:59
Simple Program Creator, 3D Designer (Without animation), Flammable Organic Gas Producer, Oxygen consumer
that's....creative... not just an ordinary card.... this card also describes owner's profiles....especially the main picture..... so, you don't have to ask his/her interests twice,am i right?
(ID #393985) Posted on 2008/12/01 19:01
IT tech support
EXACTLY. lol. although our culture in malaysia is still the "typical" card = business cards mindset. so the reactions whenever i hand out my card is just priceless every damn time XD
(ID #394478) Posted on 2008/12/02 02:17
I have business cards, but as they reflect the nature of my work there's no anime characters on them >.> the name card idea is a good one but I think I'll wait until my website is fully up and running before I put it in action! Now if only I can find a company over here that can print business cards so cheaply...
(ID #394796) Posted on 2008/12/02 08:26
Grocery Store Clerk
I hop eon day I can get an office job and have my own.
(ID #395216) Posted on 2008/12/02 12:52
That's a great way to stand out from the crowd! Would be cool if it was a foldable card and half her body was a cutout so she would pop-up when you fold it!
(ID #395320) Posted on 2008/12/02 13:42
Have you guys checkout vista print? I know they have a japanese and an english site, yet they don't print in japanese o nthe english site :(
(ID #396566) Posted on 2008/12/03 08:28
Japanese name cards are so much more interesting than dull western name cards with just bold fonts xD
(ID #396652) Posted on 2008/12/03 10:12
too young to have meishi... and yeah name cards in SG here mostly contain name contact and picture of person. no cute pictures of 2d girls. pple in sg will probably think u as a loli/freak
(ID #397022) Posted on 2008/12/03 14:59
hi everyone! i know this is really illrelevent, but can someone who uses email with @softbank.ne.jp tell me rather this email can recieve emails from hotmails? its really urgent please help me!
(ID #397372) Posted on 2008/12/03 22:38
I don't have a name card but it's a really good idea . Hmmmmmmmmmmm *thinking about card ideas *
(ID #397835) Posted on 2008/12/04 07:18
ソフトウエアエンジニア (Software Engineer)
Thanks for the great advice with name cards and great ideas on how to use them. It's quite an eye opener seeing such eye catching designs rather than the standard plain cards you tend to see. I only recently got myself some plain business cards printed out from work, but now i'm thinking of making my own personal set that will be a bit more interesting and perhaps have a link to my blog as well as having an English and Japanese side. Moo.com looks great. Can't wait to make my own personal cards to hand out in my next trip to Japan.
(ID #401833) Posted on 2008/12/07 10:15
Must remember the correct way to hand out business cards.
(ID #404351) Posted on 2008/12/09 11:59
Bunny's mom, Illustrator, time eater...
ha...I never knew some company put Korean name on their name card...! 주국동!
(ID #433089) Posted on 2009/01/02 20:09
I actually cna do this sort of thing. By title I graduated my technical school as a Graphic artist. By trade I'm a student. I cna actually design all these types of cards by hand. Reading it was like stepping back to my last semester in school before I graduated high school. Anyways, thanks for the advice. Who know maybe someday I'll be working in Japan. Does Good Smile or Mirai have an art department with a need for a Graphic Artist?
(ID #433831) Posted on 2009/01/03 14:33
Black Knight, White King
I like the idea of having a business card, if for no other reason than to appear professional to a new contact. Even Danny's idea of a personal name card makes sense to me, because you have something to give someone you meet and chances are not a lot of people do. So it would probably help someone remember who you are. But this talk also makes me think about this...lol...just because its funny: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qoIvd3zzu4Y
(ID #466747) Posted on 2009/01/29 15:25
graphic designer, dog groomer
Being a graphic designer I've really enjoyed seeing the cards in this post. Thanks for sharing!! My company made a logo for a Japanese company that did seafood exporting to the United States and when we made their business card we had to make a side in Japanese. I think your choice to put the site mascots on your card was a good one. It makes you stand out.
(ID #532406) Posted on 2009/03/24 17:18
well i don't really need business card for now but i really like Danny Choo's meishi =P
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