China Business Etiquette: Introductions
- Carson Block & Kathy Block, China Primer
This article covers introductions with Chinese people including how to greet a Chinese person and exchanging business cards. This is part of an ongoing series of articles on Chinese Business Etiquette. Doing Business in China for Dummies, chapter 16 has a comprehensive discussion on business etiquette in China.
Guidelines for Business Dress in China
- Suits for men. Always plan on wearing a suit and tie to business meetings and banquets unless you’re specifically touring a factory.
- Women should dress very modestly. Avoid high heels and short-sleeve blouses. Revealing clothing for women is considered to be inappropriate.
- Note that you may notice your Chinese counterparts dressing less formally than we advise you to dress. Keep in mind that by dressing the part of a successful Western businessperson, you are elevating your status in their eyes.
When addressing someone, refer to the person’s family name, not his or her given name. The Chinese family name comes first and is usually one syllable. A one or a two-syllable given name follows the family name. For example, in the case of Zhang Wei Li, Zhang is the family name and Wei Li is the given name. Some Westernized Chinese may reverse their names (e.g. Wei Li Zhang). Therefore, it is always a good idea to ask which name is the family name.
You should avoid using someone's given name unless you have known him or her for a long period of time. Formality is a sign of respect, and it is advisable to clarify how you will address someone very early in a relationship, generally during your first meeting.
Whenever possible try to address the Chinese person using their title. The title follows the family name (Family name + Title). For example, Ms. Zhang would be Zhang Xiaojie and Chairman Wong would be Wong Dongshizhang.
Below is a list of commonly used titles.
| Personal Titles | Company Titles |
| Mr. – Xiansheng Mrs. – Nushi Miss – Xiaojie Madame – Furen or Taitai | Chairman of the Board - Dongshizhang President - Zongcai Managing Director - Zongjingli Manager - Jingli |
The Chinese usually greet foreigners with a handshake – which typically can be soft and without much eye contact. This should not be mistaken for timidity. The Chinese are just not accustomed to the firm handshake of the West.
Presenting Your Business Card
Before coming to China, you may want to get some business cards made. One side should be in English and the other in Mandarin Chinese (simplified characters, not traditional). At a minimum, your card should include your:
- Name
- Title
- Company
- Email Address
You may also want to include your mobile phone number on your card.
When you present a business card, use both hands to hold the long side of the card as you present it to the person to whom you’re being introduced. Present your card with the Chinese side facing up. When a Chinese person is presenting you his or her business card, be sure to accept it with both hands. Hold it the same way he or she handed it to you. Then study the card for a short while.
It is important to treat a person’s card with respect. After studying the card, you should carefully put it away. Don’t shove it into your purse or pocket. Also, never write on the business card that you receive from the Chinese person.
Relevant Articles:
China Business Etiquette: Business Meetings
More Navigation:
China Business Etiquette and Culture Category Page
Travel to China Section Home Page
