What's "guanxi"?
Guanxi in Chinese means "relationship" or social networking. It's regarded as the central idea in Chinese society. "Guanxi" can take on many forms. It does not have to be based on money. The kernel of guanxi is doing business through value-based relationships. Chinese people feel obligated to do business with their friends first. Right guanxi can ensure a success.
What's "mianzi"?
Mianzi, which means face in English, is a combination of dignity, pride and public reputation. Managing mianzi is an integral part of Chinese etiquette. It can be so important that Chinese may sweep aside business to keep it.
What's "geimianzi"?
It means giving face, showing respect for a person's feelings. Simple ways of "giving face" could be sitting in the correct place at a meeting or dinner, offering an appropriate gift to a person, or giving praise and compliments.
What's "meimianzi"?
It means losing face. Face can be lost through a public insult or public contradiction or by failure to receive the proper level of respect. It is not really the act that causes a loss of face but the fact that the act is public, and there is public humiliation or loss of prestige involved.
What's "liumianzi"?
I t means giving someone a chance to regain lost honor. It can be very important in building long-term business relationships and friendships.
Why do Chinese suppliers invite me to a business dinner? Does it mean their products are not so good?
No, Chinese business dinners are based on tradition. If done properly, the business banquet is one of the best ways to demonstrate one's knowledge and appreciation of Chinese culture to current or future business associates.
What's the seat etiquette in Chinese business culture?
Generally, the seat in the middle of the table, facing the door, is reserved for the guest of honor. The host sits directly to the left. Everyone else is seated in descending order of status.
Is there anything I should avoid when having dinner with Chinese people?
Leaving a "clean plate" means that you are not given enough food, which makes the host lose face.
Don't tap on your bowl with your chopsticks. Sticking your chopsticks straight up in your rice bowl is considered rude because in this position, they resemble the joss sticks that are used in Chinese religious rituals.
Should I arrive earlier when hosting a banquet?
Yes, you should arrive at least 30 minutes before your guests.
What does "Have you eaten?" mean?
The question "Have you eaten?" or "Where have you been?" are mentioned in China as well as "How are you?" It's just a superficial inquiry that does not require a literal-minded, detailed answer.
Do I need to give business gifts to Chinese?
Unlike many countries, gift-giving does not carry any negative connotations when doing business in China. Gifts should always be exchanged for celebrations, or thanks for assistance.
What should I know about business gift-giving?
Give a gift to the entire company, rather than an individual, and present the gift to the leader of the Chinese negotiating team. A gift should always be wrapped, but avoid plain black or white paper because these are the colors of mourning. Don't expect them to unwrap the gift in front of you, rather it may just be put aside. This does not mean they are not grateful.
Which kind of gifts is popular among Chinese?
Popular items include cigarette lighters, wine, the exotic coins, local traditional ornaments or food etc.
Never give clocks to Chinese.
Why do Chinese people sometimes refuse my gift?
Chinese do not usually accept a gift, invitation or favor when it is first presented. Politely refusing two or three times is thought to reflect modesty and humility. Accepting something in haste makes a person look aggressive and greedy. So it may sometimes take a few tries to get the person to accept the gift.
Do I need to tip in China?
No, tipping is not practiced and almost no one asks for tips.
What's is the order of Chinese names?
The family name always comes first, and only family members or close friends use first names.
Why do Guangdong people tap the table when someone pours tea for them?
It means THANK YOU.
When do Chinese people usually take a long vacation?
The annual Chinese Spring Festival comes every late January or early February, almost every Chinese person takes vacation for at least 7 days.
Why do younger Chinese give up a seat to elders on bus?
Chinese people respect for elders. So don't be offended if younger Chinese offer you an arm going up stairs or other assistance if you are older.
Does every Chinese learn Kongfu?
Of course not.
