Choosing Greeting Cards for International Recipients

The saying goes, "Black goes with everything." Or does it? This may be your mantra when shopping for a new wardrobe or selecting an appropriate outfit for a social occasion but this may not apply in different cultures. A cultural faux pas could seriously affect your business relationship. The same can occur when sending greeting cards internationally, so please consider the following to make sure your are practicing good international business etiquette.

The colors featured in your design and in the message printed inside the card should be carefully considered prior to selecting a greeting card for international recipients. Greeting cards are sent in appreciation of the relationship between the giver and the recipient and you want to ensure that the gesture and message will be well-received. You should tailor your selection based on the culture of the recipient.

Here are some things to keep in mind for your international greeting when it comes to color:

China - Red is a symbol of luck. White, black and blue are predominantly associated with death.

Japan - Red and white used together signify happiness and celebration. Black is considered unlucky.

India - Red and green are considered lucky while white and black are considered unlucky.

If you're unable to locate information on the country where your recipients are located, it is proper international business greeting card etiquette to ask someone who is familiar with or from that area about the meaning of color within the culture. Prior to placing your order, request samples of various cards, and show them to others to judge their reactions. The card selected is a representation of not only the company but the individual person sending the card and a thoughtful, appropriate selection will be much more appreciated if some thought goes into cultural considerations as well.