Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
• Email is not always the best mode of communication. Chinese people will often
fail to respond to emails, especially if the answer is “no.” For general commu-
nication, take up the favorite option—instant messaging, such as QQ or MSN.
Face-to-face communication is preferred.
• There's no need to bow in China.
• If meeting a senior associate, wait for them to initiate the handshake. If you out-
shine them with politeness it can cause embarrassment. Whether or not Chinese
women shake hands is uncertain, just as in the West, so judge by each situation.
• Ask a Chinese associate ahead of time how you should respectfully address the
person you'll be meeting.
• Always have business cards at every first meeting, and ensure they have your de-
tails in Chinese as well as English.
• If you can't speak Chinese, bring your own interpreter to business meetings.
For many more very practical tips in understanding Chinese culture and business,
visit
http://beijing.ischam.org
and click on Cultural Tips under Business in China.
The Beijinger website is the place to find or offer employment.
