Understanding And Knowing Chinese Business Culture Facts

By Kevin Schmidt


While it can often be fun to do business in other countries, it can also be challenging. For example, Chinese Business Culture Facts show that everything from greetings to conversations are quite different than those in the United States and other countries. As such, it is important to study the proper etiquette and culture when planning on overseeing or attending a meeting in China.

For those presenting at an event or meeting, it is imperative that the presenter is well prepared. Whether handing out materials or using a slide-show, it is important to only use back and white ink. Whereas, it is also essential to have enough copies for each individual in attendance.

When it comes to the initial greeting, small talk is generally expected. In some cases, this time can be used to plan future events. Whereas, most often these brief discussions are related to office decor, weather and general conversation. As a rule, it is often best to avoid conversations related to policies or practices associated with a country or countries.

While working with China, delays are common and need be expected. For, most often when working against deadlines, the country will request an extension. For, the Chinese feel in doing so the country gains an advantage and has some control over the process.

Most often, Chinese business people enter rooms in hierarchical order. As this is the case, it is important that other countries follow this protocol when meeting. Otherwise, those in charge of the may target conversation and information in the wrong direction. When this is the case, the information being shared can often become confusing to attendees.

Business meetings can take place year round in China. While this is the case, the most favorable time of year for doing business in the country is between September and October and June and September. For, most businesses have slower operations during these times of year. It should also be noted that appointments need be scheduled between 8 am and 5 pm weekdays and never between the hours of noon and two in the afternoon. For, most operations shut down for a two hour break during this period.

In most settings, handshakes are a common form of greeting. At the same time, there are people which are uncomfortable with personal contact. As such, it is often best when in China to allow hosts to make the first gesture of this kind. After which, it can be easier to know that the other party is comfortable in the process.

Most often, those in elevated positions prefer to be called by title and last name. While this is the case, using the term comrade need be avoided. For, individuals using the term are often thought to have a commitment to the communist way of life. As such, it is often best to avoid using military terms of this nature.

Whether at the beginning, during or at the end, speaking a few words in Chinese is often a nice gesture. At the same time, if an individual is going to use the Chinese language, it is important to understand the meaning behind the words. For, if not careful, it can be easy to misspeak in ways which can often cause tension among attendees throughout the course of the meeting.




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