Final answer:
In the U.S., business cards are not always reciprocated although it is good etiquette to exchange them. It's vital to have a professional networking business card on hand, and keep them clean and crisp to make a good impression.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of professional etiquette within the United States, are business cards always reciprocated? The answer is No. While it is common courtesy to exchange business cards during meetings or networking events, it is not a strict rule that every such interaction must result in an exchange of cards. It's important to create a networking business card that represents a professional image, as this facilitates the exchange of contact information with prospective employers or leads.
When designing and using networking cards, it's crucial that they are kept clean and crisp, as this reflects on your personal brand and attention to detail. Moreover, always having your networking cards with you opens up the possibility for creating valuable contacts anytime, anywhere. You should be ready to offer a card when meeting someone new professionally, but you should also be prepared that the offer might not always be reciprocated.