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How to do business in CHINA!
China is the most densely populated country in the world with over a billion people living on the
mainland alone. There are also Chinese living in neighboring countries and other parts of the world. 93% percent of the population are made up of Han
Chinese.
Background History
The official language is standard Chinese derived
from Mandarin dialect. Most people who
ventured in business can speak English. This is why
it’s quite easy to communicate with them.
Understanding how Chinese people communicate
The Chinese always like formal introductions. Always take note of official titles. Often,
Chinese people will use a nickname to assist
Westerners.
Greetings
When handing a calling card, present and receive cards with both hands. Always remember not to write
on a business card. It is better to carry a small card case and never put it in your wallet or pocket.
Business Cards
Seniority is also very important to the Chinese especially if you are dealing with a government
officer or State affairs. It is appropriate to address the other party by his designation or rank, instead of addressing the other
party as Mr. or Mrs. For example, it is better to say “Director Yu”
rather than saying “Mr. Yu” when you want to call their attention.
Respect for Seniority
Being on time is vital in China, but if a Chinese was late for a meeting, it is not because he was wasting the time of the
other party. It might be because of some reasons especially if the address of the meeting
place is unclear. Another thing to take note is to allow the Chinese to leave first if the
meeting is over.
Tardiness
For men, they wear suits for with subtle or neutral colors. Even casual dress should be
conservative as well. For women, short sleeved
bloused and heels should be avoided. Revealing clothing is considered offensive to
Chinese businessmen.
Appearance
Chinese are fond of food, and it is common for them to have at least one trip to a restaurant for business meetings. Chinese often rent a private room in a
grand restaurant for doing such meetings while enjoying good food.
During Lunch/Dinner Meetings
When a Chinese business meal takes place, the Chinese always likes to have a detailed seating arrangement. For
northern Chinese, the formal seating arrangement is very particular to them, while the Southern Chinese has
loosened the formalities somewhat. Fixed seating positions for the host and the guest should be
organized. They should also be seated according to seniority or designation. Formality is a part of their
culture, and it is important to show it even for a dinner meeting. Following the rules accordingly shows respect.
Chinese do not speak with their hands. It is considered distracting to the host if you have hand movements when talking. They also don’t point
fingers when speaking. In case you need to emphasize
something, do not point your index finger but rather
use an open palm.
Manners and Body Language
Drinking Alcoholic Beverages
There might be instances that during or after the meeting, alcohol will be served. It does not matter if it
is lunch or dinner as long as a meal is being hosted. People from the northern and western China are heavy drinkers. It is often seen as rude to refuse a
drink with the Chinese in a formal lunch or dinner. If you cannot keep up with them and you want to
maintain your sanity, you can ask for a non-alcoholic drink instead. You can also tell them you have a
medical condition. That will get you off the hook…
BonusClick on the link below to read the full blog post!
https://blog.laowaicareer.com/understanding-chinese-business-culture
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