Chinese Business Etiquette: Tips for Successful Business Meetings

Business Communication 1
BUSINESS COMMUNICATION
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Business Communication 2
Chinese Business Etiquette
Globalization is on the rise hence there is more need for different people to do business with the
Chinese. Language is vital in bridging international relationship. Expectations on culture and
etiquette in the language are more necessary. Prakash Sethi (2014) asserts that increasing
understandings of the Chinese business culture, their social etiquette aid in averting
miscommunication and misunderstanding. An important rule in understanding and applying the
Chinese business etiquette is when in China, do as the Chinese do (Vollmer, 2012).
On greetings, a handshake is commonly used, but it’s important to wait for the counterpart to
initiate the greeting. When addressing using titles, then it should be done with the title first,
followed by the surname. Exchanging business cards in China is part of introductions since it is
observed as part of the person. While entering meeting rooms, it should be in hierarchical order,
and an assumption is made that the first person walking in the room is the delegation’s head. The
business card should be presented or received by both hands. Shrivastava (2012) denotes that in
China, business cards are treated with great respect, hence while receiving it, it should be placed
in a business card holder and not pocket or wallet. It is advisable that the business card one side
be in English and the other in simple Chinese.
Chinese people open conversations by breaking the ice, using small charts. During
conversations, it is essential to give a favorable impression of and strictly to avoid political
discussions like those related to Tibet, Taiwan, and human rights. In China, it is essential to stay
calm, collected and controlled in body language and movements. The body posture should be
formal and attentive which exhibits respect and control. On decision making according to
(Prakash Sethi 2014), Chinese like lengthy negotiations past the agreed deadline for their

Business Communication 3
advantage, therefore the counterpart’s patience is essential. For business meetings, in China,
conservative suits are preferred for the dress code, while bright colors aren't considered. Rank is
critical in China therefore during eating the seniors are expected to dig in first, and clearing plate
is considered that you are not satisfied. Always expect to be served about twenty or more courses
of meals. Therefore, overeating at once will not be possible. Premium delicacies in China may
include dog meat, scorpions, blood, locusts, and snake hence don't be surprised. Shrivastava
(2012) notes that when invited for drinks, don’t be hesitant because during business meetings, it
is part of building a personal relationship and it implies taking part in their drinking culture.
During eating avoid sticking the chopstick straight into the bowl, because such actions are done
at funerals. The person who made invitations pay bills. Chinese people prefer giving a face and
not losing it. It is vital to be keen while commenting using strong negative statements like using
a blunt “No,” it’s better to use “maybe.”
Steps to make a favorable first impression
Business entrepreneurs are aware that growing their businesses are more than just their good
business ideas. According to some studies, the first seven seconds in meeting somebody, that’s
when the first impression is made. No matter how good a business idea or product is according to
Holtz (2015), if a good impression is not made in the first business meeting, then there are high
chances of losing potential business partnerships or investors. Managing personal image and
being aware of business etiquette is a skill to be mastered by those seeking business partnerships
or financing.
Mary should be punctual at the meeting. It will ensure that she doesn’t waste Mr. Lau’s time.
Arriving late to business meetings make the counterpart uncomfortable. On meeting with Mr.