Greetings

Slight bow or handshake Wait for Chinese to offer hand first Your hand
may be held for longer than youd expect in the West

Applause

You might be greeted by applause from groups The polite response is to
applaud (clap) back

Formality


Expect introductions to be courteous and formal

Expect to take a fair amount of time over this on first visit

Highest-ranking member of group should lead the way

Subordinates should NOT interrupt in business meetings
Titles

Chinese are sensitive to titles Use official titles wherever possible

E g Director, Engineer Dont use the word Comrade (unless you are a CP
member) If no title use Mrs, Mrs or Miss until advised otherwise
Names

Chinese names are surname first and given names second

E g Mao Tsedong was Chairman Mao, not Chairman Tsedong
Gestures

Chinese dont use gestures and strong facial expressions and are not tactile
Remember the stereotype inscrutable

Dress

Conservative suits and ties are appreciated Loud colours are not
appropriate Women tend to wear high-necked blouses and low heels
Eveningwear not usual unless at diplomatic receptions

Breaks

Lunch break between 12 00 PM and 2 00 PM universal
Everything shuts down

Red tape

China is a bureaucratic country Dont expect things to happen fast Dont
show impatience or anger This is seen as a serious character flaw Keep
your schedule light

NOTE: A well-known Chinese negotiating tactic is to exploit impatience and
deadlines to introduce new issues almost at departure Dont say when you
have to leave and dont give or imply time restraints