China Business Culture and Etiquette 3 - Conversation

This time we will talk about conversations in a China business setting or even networking in general. Chinese values relationships a lot and lack of personal connections can be a deal breaker. So here you go:

Before your visit, prepare yourself by googling some basics of Chinese culture, history, and geography; make an effort to learn and use at least a few words in Chinese; your initiative will be noticed and appreciated. However, make sure you know the meaning and appropriate occasions for what you say. The simple "How are you?" (Nei Hao Ma?) works like a gem and can never (ok, seldom) go wrong.

China has a culture based on courtesy and implications. When your Chinese counterparts smilingly and politely or even enthusiastically say 'No BIG problem' or 'The problem is not serious', they usually mean 'There are still some problems.' When people compliment on you, do not say "Thank you"! It implies that you agree with the compliment and is considered arrogant. In stead, you should said something like, "No, no, not really at all" and then go ahead to compliment them back.

You may be asked intrusive questions concerning your age, income, and marital status. (It is extremely common for them to ask for your marital status, not so for age or income) If you don't want to reveal this information, remain polite and give an unspecific answer. Don't express irritation with the questioner, since 'losing face' has such negative implications in this culture.

There is not neccessary to avoid mentioning Taiwan or Tibet (maybe Tibet but definitely not Taiwan). If the subject comes up, never refer Taiwan as 'The Republic of China' or 'Nationalist China.' The correct term is 'Taiwan Province', or just 'Taiwan.' Refrain from using the terms such as 'Red China', 'Mainland China,' and 'Communist China.' Just say 'China' or 'PRC' (Abbreviation for People's Republic of China). However, the general rule of thumb is: talk less about politics, talk more about business.

'Small talk' is considered especially important at the beginning of a meeting; here are some topics of small talk that are hard to go wrong:

Chinese scenery, landmarks
weather, climate, and geography in China
your travels in other countries
your positive experiences (don't mention how dirty the bathrooms are) traveling in China

Next time on China Business Opportunities, we are going to talk about the custom of addressing your host and other Chinese.

China Business Culture and Etiquette 2 - Attire

Today we are going to talk about the proper attire for business meetings in China.

For men, I'd say most of the western custom still applies; conservative suits and ties in subdued colours are the norm. In many western culture, it is now acceptable to not wear tie, however, you should always wear one in China. In formal events, men should wear only suits and ties - no tux! Tuxedoes are not a part of Chinese business culture.

For women, you should be aware that China is a very conservative society, you should wear conservative suits or dresses of subdued colors i.e. black, brown, grey; a blouse or other kind of top should have a high neckline, do not show too much skin.

Because of the emphasis on modesty in Chinese business culture and culture in general, flat shoes or very low heels are the main footwear options for women. This is true especially when westerners are relatively much taller than Chinese. High heels are acceptable only at a formal reception hosted by foreign diplomats.

Next time in China business opportunities, we are going to talk about business conversation customs in China.

China Business Culture and Etiquette 1 - Appointments

Sorry for not blogging for a while, I was extremely busy the past two weeks dealing with the launch of my website. It is a marketplace called Esdena.com where college students can buy and sell college textbooks, DVDs, shot glasses and much more.

Anyhow, in this series, we are going to cover the culture and etiquette of Chinese businesses. Do not overlook this important aspect because Chinese takes them seriously and westerners are often not aware of these cultural differences. Last time, we talked about visiting potential joint venture partners or manufacturers in China. So I will start off by talking about making appointments in China.

First off, be punctual! Being late for an appointment is unacceptable in Chinese business culture, it shows a lack of respect and sincerity for the person you are meeting with and the business venture.

Business and government hours in China are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday. There is, however, a five-day work week in larger cities. Avoid visiting government offices on Friday afternoon, not only is it reserved for 'political studying' of the officials, would you want to meet someone on a Friday afternoon? Store hours are 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., daily. Most stores in big cities like Shanghai, Beijing, and Hong Kong, however, remain open until 10:00 p.m.

When scheduling your appointments, be sensitive to holidays such as Chinese New Year (late Janurary or early Feburary). During May Day (May 1st), or the National Day, many businesses will be closed for up to a week.

If you want to arrange an appointment with local Chinese business and officials, the East Asia & Pacific office of the U.S. Department of Commerce can help you; they are also effective in identifing the contacts you will have to establish to achieve your objectives. Sometimes, you might want to hire a reputable Public Relations firm, as they can help you arrange meetings and negotiate with senior Chinese officials or even pinpointing whom you should meet for your purposes.

Next time on China Business Opportunities Blog, we are going to talk about the appropriate dressing when you attend a business meeting in China. Stay tuned.