China is known as a state of etiquette and ceremonies. To understand the Chinese, some concepts should not be ignored:

Mianzi (Face)

The idea of shame, usually expressed as 'face' could be loosely defined as the 'status' or 'self-respect' in Chinese and by no means alien to foreigners. It is the worst thing for a Chinese to lose face. Never insult, embarrass, shame, yell at or otherwise demean a person. Neither try to prove someone wrong nor shout at him in public.

Never make demands, always calmly explain the situation and request politely assistance in correcting the problem. That way your Chinese host can offer an act of friendship rather than "losing face" by giving in to a demand. Most people will go out of their way to help you if it's presented correctly.

Guanxi (Relationships between People)

The fundamental glue that has held society together is the concept of guanxi, relationships between people. It is very important for the Chinese to have good relationships.

Keqi

Keqi not only means considerate, polite, and well mannered, but also represents humbleness and modesty. The expression is most often used in the negative, as in buyao keqi, meaning "you shouldn't be so kind and polite to me," or "you're welcome."

Let's talk about several aspects of Chinese etiquette.

Greetings and Introductions

It is important when starting or opening your greeting for the most senior person to introduce themselves and then the next senior person, thus working down the rank in your company or organisation. Even when Chinese business people visit Western countries, they will mostly walk in the room with the most senior person leading the party. This custom is a matter of respect and honour, these two words are probably the most important in Chinese culture. Normally when you are shaking the hand of a Chinese official or business person it is polite to slightly bow your head forward, but not your whole body.

• Chinese prefer to be formally introduced to someone new. Always stand up when being introduced and remain standing throughout the introductions.
• When talking with a stranger, the topics such as weather, food, or hobbies may be good choices to break the ice. To a man, a chat about current affairs, sports, stock market or his job can usually go on smoothly.
• Chinese used to cup one hand in the other before the chest as a salute. But nowadays it is seldom used except in the Spring Festival. And shaking hands is more popular and appropriate on some formal occasions. But at present Chinese youngsters tend to simply nod as a greeting.
• Shaking hands in an affirmative manner is widely accepted and common practice in Chinese business world.
• Never scratch others palm with your fingers when shaking hands or you will fall into a trouble as this action is deemed as sexual intrigue and an intrusive act.

Business Card Etiquette

• Use both hands when presenting business cards and be sure the writing faces the person to whom you are presenting your card. Cards should also be received with both hands.
• Do not immediately put the card in a pocket or bag - this is considered rude. Follow with the standard "I am pleased to meet you, or "ni hao" in Chinese. When seated, place cards on the table.
• Business cards should be printed in English on one side and Chinese on the other. Be sure to use simplified Chinese characters for mainland.

Social distance, Touching & Gestures

• The Chinese do not like to be touched, particularly by strangers. Do not hug, back slap or put an arm around someone's shoulder. Note however that the Chinese generally don't have the same sense of personal space that North Americans do. It's not unusual for people to almost press up against you while speaking to you. Try to relax and not show how disconcerting it might.
• Do not point the index finger--use the open hand instead.
• Do not use the index finger to call someone-use the hand with fingers motioning downward as in waving.
• Do not snap finger.
• Do not show the soles of shoes.
• Do not whistle.

Eye Contact

• Maintain eye-contact with your business partner will help communications.
• Staring or absence of eye-contact would mean impoliteness.
• Note: When walking in public places, direct eye contact and staring are not common in the larger cities, especially in those areas accustomed to foreign visitors. However, in smaller communities, visitors may be the subject of much curiosity and therefore you may notice some stares, especially if you are blond or redheaded.

Dining Etiquette

• Chopsticks should not be played with during a meal (for example banging them on the table), used for pointing or left standing up in a rice bowl.
• The socially-acceptable method for eating rice is to bring one's bowl close to one's mouth and quickly scoop the rice into it with one's chopsticks, but simply lifting portions of rice to the mouth from the bowl held in the other hand is also acceptable.
• If you wish to take a drink of the wine, you may first toast another diner. If you yourself are toasted but do not wish to drink, it is acceptable to touch the glass to your lips without drinking.

Gift Giving

• If you are invited to a family party, small gifts like wine, tea, cigarettes, or candies are welcomed. Also fruit, pastries, and flowers are a safe choice.
• Wedding gifts and birthday gifts for the aged are always sent in pairs for the old saying goes that blessings come in pairs.
• Though four is an even number, it reads like death in Chinese thus is avoided.
• A gift of clock is a taboo because it sounds like attending other's funeral. As connected with death and sorrow, black and white are also the last in the choice.
• Always wrap gifts, but do not use white paper-it symbolizes death. Red and gold are the best.
• When receiving gifts from the Chinese, do not open them unless they insist.

Tips for Meeting with Chinese People

Before Meeting:

• Bring a large supply of business cards. You may meet many more people than anticipated.
• Chinese usually tend to come a bit earlier to show their earnestness. And it would not be regarded as being late if you come within 10 minutes.
• There are some useful Chinese expressions easy to learn:

During Meeting:

• When business negotiation is entered, verbal communications are enough and do not do too many gestures.
• Do not take the Chinese nod for agreement; it's only a sign that they are listening attentively.

If a Chinese person gives you a compliment, it is polite to deny it graciously. Modesty is highly valued in China.

Others:

• China is one of the few countries where tipping is not practiced. In most places, it is not necessary to tip and nobody will ask for it.

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Last modified: January 13, 2006 by Webmaster