Business etiquette in China

Business is still very much relationship-based in China. It is essential to have someone with local knowledge with you that you trust. Organizations are very hierarchical. It is very important to talk to someone with high ranking roles so that you can get somewhere in meetings.

In meetings, it is traditionally the highest-ranking manager who does the talking, but this may be different in more modern organizations.

Travelers in China should use intermediaries when meeting new contacts. When you are introduced to someone, it is usually done in a formal manner, with the person in charge first. People wait to be introduced, and they will shake hands briefly, but physical contact is limited to that. They also do not express any emotions.

Bilingual business cards are often used. One side is in Simplified Chinese, the other in English.

Use both hands when exchanging business cards. This is a basic form of respect required when giving and receiving business cards.

In China, the last name is given first, then the first name. For the name Xing Ming, Xing is the last name and Ming is the first name.

Small talk is considered very important, especially at the beginning of a meeting.

In recent years, the exchange of WeChat accounts has become even more important than business cards, as this is a very useful tool for both business and more personal contact.

Appearance and first impressions are considered very important in Chinese business culture. Dressing properly, in high-quality clothing, shows both high status and courtesy.

In formal settings, men should wear a suit, while women should wear a trouser suit or dress. Avoid high heels if you are tall.

There is much less social distance in China, so don't stand too far from people.

It is customary to shake hands in business meetings. In larger cities, men and more Western-oriented women will greet foreign men with a handshake. Occasionally, foreign women are also greeted.

Bowing is the simplest way to greet someone. It is often used for people you don't know very well, in formal settings, or when you don't have time to talk to anyone. In that case, you can simply nod and smile at the person you want to greet.