Meeting the Chinese

When introduced, the Chinese will offer a card with their name and business, or professional credentials, inscribed on two sides: one in Chinese, the other in Western, script. They in turn expect to receive a card from you, which should be offered with both hands while bowing slightly. It is considered polite to read it and comment on the contents before placing it in an inner coat pocket or wallet. The best policy is to have cards that have Chinese script on one side, which can be offered uppermost.

Greeting

Handshaking is the most common form of greeting in China. The Chinese also give a slight nod or bow when shaking hands.

Dress Code

When doing business in Hong Kong, smart, conservative clothing is preferred. Smart casual clothes are acceptable for all other occasions.

Gifts

When visiting a Hong Kong home, it is customary to take a gift, such as fruit or chocolates, which should be wrapped in brightly coloured paper. Cultural gifts brought from your home country are very much appreciated, though gifts that incorporate advertising logos are not.

Certain gifts are associated with bad luck; these include clocks, grey or black objects, and anything with a sharp cutting edge such as scissors or knives. Gifts should not be given, however, if the intention is to do business.

When receiving, it is deemed inappropriate to open gifts in front of the giver; nor should one be too effusive in showing appreciation.

Dining

Mostly, invitations will be to dine out at a restaurant rather than at the home of the host. When dining out, the host orders the meal, serves the guest(s) and expects to pay.

Chopsticks are traditional, though cutlery is an option. The Chinese have great respect for foreigners who make a serious attempt to use chopsticks. Meals are accompanied by tea, beer, brandy, cognacs or wine.

Punctuality

The Chinese are great believers in punctuality and therefore to arrive slightly ahead of the appointed time is considered good manners.

Terms of Address

Traditionally, people use last names first, followed by the given name (the given name includes the so-called first and middle name). It is not unusual for Hong Kong Chinese to use a Western first name such as 'Jack'.

Gestures

The Chinese often gesticulate in order to convey a meaning. The 'thumbs-up' sign is universally used to mean excellence, as is the pulling of an earlobe between thumb and index finger.

Smiling

When the Chinese smile, it can mean embarrassment or concern and therefore should not always be considered an expression of happiness or satisfaction.