Greetings and Introductions

The Chinese usually do not like to do business with strangers, and will make frequent use of go-betweens. Whenever possible, try to use established relationships, or an intermediary known by both sides, to make the first contact

  Chinese prefer to be formally introduced to someone new. This applies to both Chinese and foreigners.

  The Chinese may seem unfriendly when being introduced. They are taught not to show excessive emotion, thus the reference to Chinese and other Asians as inscrutable.

Always stand up when being introduced and remain standing throughout the introductions.

  When being introduced to Chinese, the accepted form of greeting is the handshake, even among Chinese. Chinese may also nod or slightly bow (Unlike the Japanese, the Chinese bow from the shoulders rather than the waist). One would then present a business card.

Business Card Etiquette

Use both hands when presenting business cards and be sure the writing faces the person to whom you are presenting your card. Cards should also be received with both hands. Do not immediately put the card in a pocket or bag-this is considered rude.

  Follow with the standard "I am pleased to meet you, or "ni hao" in Chinese.

  When seated, place cards on the table. This shows respect and is also an excellent way to remember names.

  Business cards should be printed in English on one side and Chinese on the other.

  Be sure to use simplified Chinese characters for China, not the classical characters used in Hong Kong and Taiwan. If traveling to China and Taiwan or Hong Kong, it is a good idea to put the different cards in separate boxes to avoid mix-ups.

  Remember that China is the People's Republic of China and Taiwan is the Republic of China

Titles & Forms of Address

  The Chinese will state their last name first, followed by the given name (may be one or two syllables). For example, Liu Jianguo, in Chinese would be Mr. Jianguo Liu using the Western style.

Never call someone by only his or her last name. Unless specifically asked, do not call someone by his or her first name.

  Addressing someone by his or her courtesy or professional title and last name conveys respect. In Chinese the name precedes the title. For example, Liu Xiansheng for Mr. Liu, and Liu Jingli for Manager Liu.

Women's names cannot be distinguished from men's names. Chinese women use their maiden names even after marriage, but may indicate marital status by using Mrs., Ms., Miss, or Madam. Mrs. Wang might be married to Mr. Liu.

  Chinese who frequently deal with foreigners or travel abroad on business may adopt a Western first name, such as David Liu. They may request that they be referred to as David, once a relationship has been established.

Do not use the term "comrade" in China.

Personal Questions & Compliments

  Every culture defines proper distance. Westerners, particularly Americans, find that the Chinese comfort zone regarding distance is a bit to close for their comfort.

  Instinctively Westerners may back up when others invade their space. Do not be surprised to find that the Chinese will simply step closer.

  The Chinese do not like to be touched, particularly by strangers. Do not hug, back slap or put an arm around someone's shoulder.

  Do not be offended if you are pushed and shoved in a line. The Chinese do not practice the art of lining up and courtesy to strangers in public places is not required.

People of the same sex may walk hand-in-hand as a gesture of friendship in China.

Western gestures that are taboo in China include:

  Pointing the index finger--use the open hand instead.

  Using the index finger to call someone-use the hand with fingers motioning downward as in waving.

  Finger snapping

  Showing the soles of shoes.

  Whistling is considered rude.

  Chinese customs that are annoying to Westerners:

  Belching or spitting on the street

  Lack of consideration when smoking and failure to ask permission to smoke

  Slurping food