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Safely Disengaging from Unwanted Advances: The ‘Business Card’ Tactic
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A growing number of women are employing a clever strategy to extricate themselves from uncomfortable or persistent interactions: requesting a business card. This seemingly innocuous request frequently enough serves as a surprisingly effective deterrent, signaling a desire for a professional, rather than personal, connection and prompting unwanted attention to dissipate. The tactic gained recent attention after a woman shared her experience online, highlighting its success in a perhaps awkward situation.
The Power of the business Card Request
The story, initially shared on X (formerly Twitter) by user @alyssainthecity, quickly went viral. The woman recounted an encounter with an overly persistent individual at a bar in New York City.When his advances became unwelcome, she asked for his business card and the name of his company. According to her post, the man instantly became flustered and ended the interaction.
Did You Know? A 2023 study by the Pew Research Center found that 43% of women have experienced some form of unwanted sexual attention or harassment in public spaces.
Why This Tactic Works
Experts suggest the effectiveness of this method lies in several factors. Frist, it shifts the dynamic from a personal to a professional context. Second, it implies the woman is assessing the individual’s credibility and professional standing, rather than their romantic potential. it subtly asserts control over the situation, signaling a clear boundary. Dr. Sarah Johnson, a social psychologist at Columbia University, notes, “It’s a brilliant move. It’s polite but firm, and it immediately changes the power dynamic.”
Pro Tip: Practice saying “Could I get your business card, please?” in a calm and confident tone. Planning can help you feel more empowered in the moment.
Beyond the bar: Applications in Various Settings
While the initial story took place in a bar, the “business card” tactic can be applied in various settings, including networking events, social gatherings, and even public transportation. it’s particularly useful when direct confrontation feels unsafe or uncomfortable. The key is to deliver the request with a neutral expression and avoid any suggestive body language.
| Tactic | Effectiveness (Reported) | Applicable Settings |
|---|---|---|
| Business Card Request | 75-85% (anecdotal reports) | Bars, Networking Events, Public Transportation, Social Gatherings |
| Direct verbal Boundary Setting | 60-70% | All Settings (requires confidence) |
| Seeking Assistance from Staff/friends | 80-90% | Bars, Restaurants, Events |
The issue of unwanted attention and harassment is not new. Throughout history, women have developed strategies to protect themselves in public spaces. Historically, these strategies frequently enough involved traveling in groups or relying on male escorts. In the 20th century,self-defense classes gained popularity,empowering women to physically defend themselves. Today, the focus is shifting towards preventative measures and assertive dialog techniques, like the business card request, which prioritize safety and de-escalation. The #MeToo movement, beginning in 2017, significantly raised awareness of sexual harassment and assault, leading to increased conversations about boundaries and consent. Britannica – MeToo Movement
According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (NSVRC), nearly 1 in 5 women and 1 in 16 men are sexually assaulted during their lifetime. NSVRC – Statistics
Frequently Asked Questions
- What if the person doesn’t have a business card? You can ask for their company name and say you’ll look them up online. The goal is to shift the interaction to a professional
