12 Tips for Understanding Chinese Business Etiquette and Culture

In an increasingly connected and globalized economy, more and more companies are opting to do business with China. Mutual respect and understanding are the foundation of a positive business relationship, so it’s essential to have a basic understanding of Chinese culture and etiquette if you want to forge a successful partnership. Even if you don’t speak a word of Chinese, there are still numerous ways that you can connect with people on a cultural level and express your goodwill.

When in China, do as the Chinese do! This guide will provide you with 12 essential insights into Chinese business etiquette, including how to conduct yourself in meetings, everyday communication, going out to eat, and more.

Chinese Meeting Etiquette

1. Essential Chinese Greetings for Business Meetings

Chinese people commonly greet each other by nodding and smiling. When you meet someone in a very formal setting, it’s often polite to let the other person initiate the handshake. For the most part, this is all you need to start things off on the right foot. If you’d like to take things a step further, here you can step out of your linguistic comfort zone and give them a genuine Chinese greeting.

You can use simple greetings like “你好” (nǐ hǎo; hi, hello) and “很高兴认识你” (hěn gāoxìng rènshí nǐ; Nice to meet you). Alternatively, you can say “幸会” (xìng huì; Charmed to meet you) or “久仰” (jiǔyǎng; I’ve long been looking forward to meeting you), which are proper expressions that will truly impress them. It’s always appreciated when you make the extra effort to use some Chinese words, but make sure to use them correctly and in the appropriate situations. Here are some other Chinese greetings you should know.

2. Proper Ways to Address People in Chinese

Most people in China are addressed by their surname followed by their job title, such as 王经理 (Wáng jīnglǐ; Manager Wang) or 张教授 (Zhāng jiàoshòu; Professor Zhang).

If you’re unsure about their title, you can use 先生 (xiānsheng; Sir, Mr.), 小姐 (xiǎojiě; Miss), or 女士 (nǚshì; Madam) instead. To learn more about addressing people in Chinese, keep reading here.

3. Exchanging Business Cards in Chinese Business Culture

Exchanging business cards is an important step when trying to establish business relationships in China. Many people consider their business cards as an extension of themselves, so exchanging them almost becomes ritualistic. It’s important to accept the card with both hands and carefully examine it before putting it away. This will also give you an opportunity to quickly learn more about the person you’re talking to, such as their name, rank, and title.

Chinese Small Talk Etiquette

4. Small Talk in Chinese Culture

In Chinese culture, small talk is common and serves as an icebreaker both around the office and before or after meetings.

You will commonly hear questions such as “你吃了吗?” (Nǐ chīle ma? Have you eaten?) or “你去哪儿了？” (Nǐ qù nǎr le? Where have you been?). While these are a bit more specific than the English “How are you?” They serve a similar purpose.

Let’s take a closer look at a question that frequently throws people off: “你吃了吗?” (Nǐ chīle ma? Have you eaten?). Many English speakers mistake this for an invitation to go eat, but in reality, Chinese people use this as a simple greeting. You only need to provide a simple yes/no answer. In some cases, it’s even more polite to say that you have eaten even if you haven’t. Think about all the times in business that you tell someone you’re doing well, even if that’s not necessarily true.

5. Do’s and Don’ts of Chinese Business Small Talk

Do:

When conversing with Chinese people, it is safe to discuss topics such as climate, travel, scenery, and food. Sharing positive impressions of China in these aspects is always welcome.

Do Not:

Engage in political discussions, especially those related to sensitive topics like Taiwan, Tibet, and human rights. It’s important to show basic respect and steer clear of potentially contentious issues.

6. What it means to “save face” in Chinese culture

In Chinese culture, the concepts of “saving” and “giving” face, known as 给面子 in Mandarin and 俾面 in Cantonese, are highly important.

Chinese people value their “face” and do not want to lose it. To give face means to show respect to elders and people of higher rank, particularly government officials.

It is important to be cautious when expressing negative opinions, as it is often perceived as impolite to be direct. Instead of a blunt “No,” it is more appropriate to use euphemistic language such as “maybe” or “we’ll think about it.” Here you can find more tips on how to politely decline.

Chinese Dining Etiquette

7. Seating Etiquette at a Chinese Dinner

When having dinner with Chinese colleagues or business partners, the seating arrangement is of the utmost importance. Typically, the most senior people are seated first. If you feel unsure about when you should seat yourself or where you should sit, it’s perfectly okay to let someone else guide you to your seat.

8. Dining Etiquette in Chinese Culture

Do not start eating before others, particularly elders and seniors, as Chinese culture places a high value on respecting rank.

Avoid finishing all your food, as it may give the impression that you are still hungry and that the host did not provide enough food. This may result in them adding more food that you don’t want to your plate.

9. Who Pays for the Meal in Chinese Culture

When inviting someone out to do an activity or have a meal in China, it’s customary to pay for it.

In a business setting, the person who extends the invitation is expected to foot the bill. While splitting the bill is becoming more and more common among younger people, it’s still considered polite to pay for the entire meal.

If you do pay, avoid showing off your money. It’s essential to learn about the local customs of paying bills before hosting or attending a meal.

10. Etiquette tips for using chopsticks in China

When eating in China, it is important to be mindful of chopstick etiquette.

One rule is to never stick your chopsticks straight into your bowl, as this is a gesture reserved for funerals and can be seen as offensive.

Similarly, tapping your bowl with your chopsticks is associated with begging and is also considered impolite.

Chinese Gift Etiquette

11. Accepting Gifts in Chinese Culture

When someone gives you a gift in Chinese culture, it is customary to accept it with both hands as a sign of respect.

Avoid opening the gift immediately, unless the giver requests that you do so.

12. Giving Gifts in Chinese Culture

When giving gifts to Chinese colleagues, it’s important to be aware of cultural taboos to avoid offending others.

Avoid giving clocks, watches, green hats, or chrysanthemums as gifts. These carry various negative connotations, from placing a curse on them to implying that their spouse is cheating on them.

Additionally, gifts should not be too expensive, and if your counterparts are government officials, be careful not to give the impression of bribery.

For more information on gift-giving etiquette in China, click here.

Closing Thoughts

Understanding and respecting Chinese business etiquette and culture can go a long way in building strong working relationships with Chinese colleagues, partners, and clients. While it may be impossible to master all the intricacies of Chinese business culture, having a basic grasp of the customs and traditions can impress your Chinese counterparts and make communication smoother.

By following the tips outlined in this article, you can navigate Chinese business etiquette with ease and confidence, helping you achieve success in your business endeavors in China.