For some organizations in western nations, the Chinese market is proving very attractive. Understanding the business culture is the first step if you want to extend your services and products there. It likewise bodes well for professional westerners to take in some appropriate decorum before taking the first excursion to China. You need to learn a few things before your first Chinese business meeting.
Chinas culture is quite different from that of the western world and so is the etiquette. There are some basic practices that you need to learn before attending a forum to discuss business in China. These people value time and punctuality. Ensure that you arrive on time or even somewhat ahead of schedule for any gathering or events.
Before any meetings ensure that you have an appointment. You need to study the Chinese calendar to avoid planning on dates that are considered national holidays. Prepare an agenda as you book the appointment. You need to have your materials such as brochures translated. This is because you may have a contact who speaks English and decision makers who cannot understand it.
You may find people dressed casually in many working levels in China. This is because dressing is not as formal as in other countries. However, you have nothing to lose by dressing well. It is important to be conservative with your style. If you plan on meeting government officials or an organizations top management you should wear formal clothes.
When leading discussions recollect that rank is particularly esteemed in China. Address everybody by their title and begin by the most senior individual in the room. You have to state your name plainly and clarify the organization you work for and what title you hold. The Chinese individuals will more often than not begin with their organization, their position and afterward their name.
It is advisable to let the oldest person take charge of the introductions. Use official titles when addressing associates. When trading business contacts ensure you start with the most senior person. Use both hands and have a slight bow when you are receiving or giving anything valuable. Avoid giving gifts as this could easily be mistaken for bribery which is illegal in the country. Do not put a card you have been given in the back pocket. During discussions start with small talk to make everyone comfortable. You should not interrupt anyone as they speak.
After meetings it is important to send follow up emails confirming the discussed agenda and the way forward. This should be done within the first 48 hours after the discussions are complete. It is important to exercise patience when dealing with business people from China. Do not expect any deals to be closed on the first day.
Conclusions will probably be made after several other meetings and in less serious establishments such as eateries and inns. In the event that you happen to share a meal it is prudent to work on utilizing chopsticks. You should never place them in parallel over the bowl. This is taken to be rude. Giving tips in restaurants is also not welcome.
Chinas culture is quite different from that of the western world and so is the etiquette. There are some basic practices that you need to learn before attending a forum to discuss business in China. These people value time and punctuality. Ensure that you arrive on time or even somewhat ahead of schedule for any gathering or events.
Before any meetings ensure that you have an appointment. You need to study the Chinese calendar to avoid planning on dates that are considered national holidays. Prepare an agenda as you book the appointment. You need to have your materials such as brochures translated. This is because you may have a contact who speaks English and decision makers who cannot understand it.
You may find people dressed casually in many working levels in China. This is because dressing is not as formal as in other countries. However, you have nothing to lose by dressing well. It is important to be conservative with your style. If you plan on meeting government officials or an organizations top management you should wear formal clothes.
When leading discussions recollect that rank is particularly esteemed in China. Address everybody by their title and begin by the most senior individual in the room. You have to state your name plainly and clarify the organization you work for and what title you hold. The Chinese individuals will more often than not begin with their organization, their position and afterward their name.
It is advisable to let the oldest person take charge of the introductions. Use official titles when addressing associates. When trading business contacts ensure you start with the most senior person. Use both hands and have a slight bow when you are receiving or giving anything valuable. Avoid giving gifts as this could easily be mistaken for bribery which is illegal in the country. Do not put a card you have been given in the back pocket. During discussions start with small talk to make everyone comfortable. You should not interrupt anyone as they speak.
After meetings it is important to send follow up emails confirming the discussed agenda and the way forward. This should be done within the first 48 hours after the discussions are complete. It is important to exercise patience when dealing with business people from China. Do not expect any deals to be closed on the first day.
Conclusions will probably be made after several other meetings and in less serious establishments such as eateries and inns. In the event that you happen to share a meal it is prudent to work on utilizing chopsticks. You should never place them in parallel over the bowl. This is taken to be rude. Giving tips in restaurants is also not welcome.
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