Thursday, January 25, 2018

How To Conduct A Chinese Business Meeting

By Dorothy Russell


Many organization in the west want to expand their business to China to grow their revenues. Understanding the culture there is crucial if you want to get into the Chinese market. It is in order for professionals to learn some etiquette before making a trip to this country. It is not hard to understand how to conduct a proper Chinese business meeting.

Chinas culture is quite different from that of the western world and so is the etiquette. There are some basic practices that you need to learn before attending a forum to discuss business in China. These people value time and punctuality. Ensure that you arrive on time or even somewhat ahead of schedule for any gathering or events.

Prior to any meetings you need an appointment. The Chinese calendar is different and you need to double check the dates to ensure you do not set up meetings when there is a national holiday. Remember to state the agenda while planning the appointment. Have your materials translated to mandarin. While your contact in the association may talk good English, the leaders in the organization may not.

You may discover individuals dressed calmly in many offices in China. This is on the grounds that dressing is not as formal as in different nations. In any case, you should dress well. It is vital to be conservative while dressing. On the off chance that you anticipate meeting government authorities or top administration officers you should wear formal garments.

When leading discussions recollect that rank is particularly esteemed in China. Address everybody by their title and begin by the most senior individual in the room. You have to state your name plainly and clarify the organization you work for and what title you hold. The Chinese individuals will more often than not begin with their organization, their position and afterward their name.

It is prudent to give the most seasoned individual a chance to assume responsibility of the presentations. Utilize official titles while talking to your counterparts. When exchanging business contacts begin with the most senior individual. Utilize your two hands and make a slight bow when you are accepting or giving anything important. Abstain from offering gifts as this could without much of a stretch be confused for a bribe which is serious crime. Try not to put a business card you have received in your back pocket. Amid exchanges begin with casual discussions to make everybody feel comfortable. You ought not to cut anyone short as they speak.

After meetings it is important to send follow up emails confirming the discussed agenda and the way forward. This should be done within the first 48 hours after the discussions are complete. It is important to exercise patience when dealing with business people from China. Do not expect any deals to be closed on the first day.

In the event that you end up sharing meals you should know how to utilize chopsticks. It would be ideal if you recall not to put them parallel over the bowl or inside the bowl. Crossing them is likewise extremely discourteous.




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