When in China

Appearance

• Conservative suits for men with subtle colors are the norm.
• Women should avoid high heels and short sleeved blouses. The Chinese frown on women who display too much.
• Subtle, neutral colors should be worn by both men and women.
• Casual dress should be conservative as well.
• Men and women can wear jeans. However, jeans are not acceptable for business meetings.
• Revealing clothing for women is considered offensive to Chinese businessmen.

Behaviour

• Do not use large hand movements. The Chinese do not speak with their hands. Your movements may be distracting to your host.
• Personal contact must be avoided at all cost. It is highly inappropriate for a man to touch a woman in public.
• Do not point when speaking.
• To point do not use your index finger, use an open palm.
• It is considered improper to put your hand in your mouth.
• Avoid acts that involve the mouth.
• Gift giving is a very delicate issue in China
• It is illegal to give gifts to government officials however; it has become more commonplace in the business world.
• It is more acceptable to give gifts either in private or to a group as a whole to avoid embarrassment.
• The most acceptable gift is a banquet.
• Quality writing pens as considered favored gifts.
• The following gifts and/or colors are associated with death and should not be given:
  • Clocks
  • Straw sandals
  • A stork or crane
  • Handkerchiefs
  • Anything white, blue or black

Communications

• Bowing or nodding is the common greeting; however, you may be offered a handshake. Wait for the Chinese to offer their hand first.
• Applause is common when greeting a crowd; the same is expected in return.
• Introductions are formal. Use formal titles.
• Often times Chinese will use a nickname to assist Westerners.
• Being on time is vital in China.
• Appointments are a must for business.
• Contacts should be made prior to your trip.
• Bring several copies of all written documents for your meetings.
• The decision making process is slow. You should not expect to conclude your business swiftly.
• Many Chinese will want to consult with the stars or wait for a lucky day before they make a decision.
• Present and receive cards with both hands.
• Never write on a business card or put it in your wallet or pocket. Carry a small card case.
• The most important member of your company or group should lead important meetings. Chinese value rank and status.
• Develop a working knowledge of Chinese culture.
• Allow the Chinese to leave a meeting first.

Survival Tips

• Bring a large supply of business cards. You may meet many more people than anticipated
• Keep in mind that in China, the date is frequently written as 2008/09/24 (year/month/date). Avoid confusion by writing the date in full.
• To be on the safe side, drink only bottle water (or boiled the night before).
• Avoid talking politics. Talk about food, sports, travel, etc.
• If a Chinese person gives you a compliment, it is polite to deny it graciously. Modesty is highly valued in China.
• The Chinese point at objects with an open hand instead of the index finger. Beckoning to someone is done with the palm facing down.
• Do not try to “go Chinese”. You are not expected to know all the Chinese etiquette and they make allowance for foreigners.
• Do learn a few words of Chinese. This shows basic respect for your host’s language and culture. A few simple words like:  hello ( ni hao), thank you (xie xie). Cheers (gan bei), and goodbye (zai jan).