Guide to China’s Business Culture & Etiquette

The world’s largest export economy is full of dazzling heritage-rich glamour and cutting-edge philosophies. It is the perfect launchpad for dreamers and doers to reach the next level of their visionary ventures and pioneering projects. Here’s how you can stand out in this uber-competitive corporate arena.?

Prepare for Picturesque Contrasts?

While it's easy for new entrants to get mesmerised by China’s rapidly evolving economy, avant-garde amenities, futuristic infrastructure, and multi-talented labour pool, as well as the atmospheric vivacity and innovative indulgences that characterise each of its jewel-toned cityscapes, from the state-of-the-art elegance exuded by imperial Beijing to the new-age artistry of whimsical Guangzhou, it’s essential to remember and respect the deep cultural roots that nourish even the most basic business interactions. For instance, organisational structures are often more centralised, following a top-down approach to decision-making with an emphasis on collective contribution and benefit. Therefore, foreign entrants must be patient and tolerant of the slower pacing of certain processes, as well as the more complex legal procedures where government authorities have a more rigid role.?

Be Modestly Communicative?

The social maxim of ‘Guangxi’ necessitates that business partnerships must be founded on meaningful personal connections, so it’s typical behaviour for your Chinese counterparts to start meetings with ‘small talk’ to break the ice while also gauging your competence, trustworthiness, and compatibility. During this crucial initial, it’s important to genuinely engage with local associates, answering their questions even if they may seem too personal and touching on non-controversial topics like food, art, history, and culture. It’s a good idea to learn some basic phrases in Mandarin or Cantonese and make sure you avoid over-marketing or hard-selling tactics.?

Engineer Engaging Events?

While a meticulously planned meeting with a well-balanced agenda communicated to your guests well in advance is the way to go, don’t forget that prestige and hospitality go hand in hand, and first impressions are everything! Therefore, make sure you greet your counterparts in order of rank and seniority, receive their business cards with ceremonious consideration, and select a venue that exudes effortless sophistication. If you’re on a high-stakes business visit, Beijing is the perfect city of opportunities, with the likes of?Discover ASR?offering premier amenities for well-heeled corporate gatherings.?

Monitor Non-Verbal Cues?

Like most Asian economies, China has a high-context culture where reading between the lines is an essential survival skill! For instance, it’s considered impolite to directly disagree or refuse with local counterparts as causing embarrassment is contrary to ‘saving face.’ Therefore, make sure not to contradict or correct your associates in public, and observe their body language for hesitancy, as they might agree to something just for the sake of politeness! Acting according to etiquette also means maintaining your composure at all times, even during the heat of negotiations, where data-driven facts are your friend and over-emphatic body language can break your streak!

Bileisure Bonding Experiences?

While this might feel counterproductive, especially if you’re used to the cut-and-dried Western business approach, remember your Chinese counterparts prefer bonding over branding! Therefore, make sure you don’t stick to your hotel room. Accept invitations to immerse in scintillating local experiences that are likely to spark creative new ideas and further your professional networks.?