Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
If you're serious about applying for a job, then there are things to be mindful of when going
for an interview with a Chinese company. First, try to be about 10 minutes early. Punctuality
is extremely important and shows your enthusiasm. Bring your business cards and be ready
to exchange them—even if you already have each others' details from emails. When you
hand the card to the other person present it with two hands and so that it faces the person
in the right direction. Don't be shy about asking how to correctly pronounce the person's
name, and remember that a Chinese person's surname actually comes first, so a Wang Wei
would be Mr. Wang, or a He Yingya would be Miss He.
The interviewer will be quite likely to start off by asking you questions about your gen-
eral experiences in China, such as places you've visited or food you've eaten. Even if it
seems inconsequential to what you're actually there for, this is a great opportunity for you
to give the interviewer some face by elaborating on your love of the country and its culture.
Generally, the interview questions will be similar to those asked in Western countries, but
be ready for some of them to stray into areas that you're not comfortable with. It's not con-
sidered rude or intrusive by many Chinese people to ask about your personal life or about
matters relating to money. Keen on formulating plans, they will probably also throw you
the “What's your five-year plan?” question.
