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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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