When in China, do as the Chinese do

If you are planning a business trip to China, it is recommended that you study a bit about the Chinese culture first. There are certain things that you must avoid during your stay in that country and not observing them might make you feel unwanted over there. Each country has its own culture and it is the same with the Chinese too. Just because they too wear suits while going to office does not mean that all their traditions and cultures are the same as that of yours. Before embarking on your trip, business or pleasure, you should understand that the Chinese culture is an ancient one and there are specific etiquette and behavior rules that one needs to follow over there.

Observing these rules will help you to enjoy your stay in there and be respected too. Being a foreigner, your mistakes might be forgiven by the Chinese, but why not try to follow and observe the same and gain their love and affection. They will respect you all the more for the pains you take to know more about their culture and tradition and this goes a long way in building up that special bond. There are certain things that make the Chinese uncomfortable and it is in your interest that you desist from doing such things. Respect for elders is one point that has been stressed time over again. The Chinese respect their elders and they love those who follow these rules.

Here is a simple way of describing how you can show your respect to an elder without going over deep into traditions. If you are visiting the family of your business contact and are carrying gifts for them, make sure that the best gift is reserved for the senior most member of the family. The same holds true if you are visiting the office of a business contact. Make sure that you gift the best gift for the senior executives. This is the best way to build a healthy business relationship and also to show that you care. Never shout at someone in public. Forget what you have seen in the movies since these are not reality and are just for entertainment purposes.

Shouting at a Chinese in public is considered rude. If any Chinese is inviting you to any ceremony that you might not be able to attend, do not refuse the invitation directly. This is considered impolite. There are many other indirect ways of not accepting the invitation and you should use them. Using red ink is a big no and you should avoid writing notes or letters using red ink. According to Chinese culture and tradition red ink symbolizes that the person using it to write will die soon. Avoid using the numerical 4 as far as possible since many consider this number as the harbinger of death. If someone asks you personal questions like your marital status, age and family background, do not feel offended. This is an accepted part of Chinese culture.