Dos and Donts


Never offer to split the bill in a Chinese restaurant Either the host or
the most senior person will pay the bill

Since few restaurants use soap when washing utensils, if you are
traveling in China it would be wise to purchase a personal set of
chopsticks to take with you

Tipping is still not common in most restaurants and hotels Note that it is
part of the ritual that any gift or tip will, at first, be firmly rejected

The following items are to be avoided as they are associated with
funerals: Straw sandals; clocks; handkerchiefs; four of any item (the
Cantonese word); gifts or wrapping paper in white, black, or blue

The Chinese will nod or bow slightly as an initial greeting Handshakes
are also popular; wait, however, for your Chinese counterpart to initiate
the gesture

If you visit a school, theatre, or another workplace, it is likely that you
will be greeted with applause as a sign of welcome In turn, you should
respond by applauding back

Avoid making expansive gestures and using unusual facial expressions

Acknowledge the most senior person in a group first

Do not put your hands in your mouth, as it is considered vulgar
Consequently, when in public, avoid biting your nails, removing food
from your teeth, and similar practices

If a Chinese person gives you a compliment, it is polite to deny it
graciously Modesty is highly valued in China

The Chinese point at objects with an open hand instead of the index
finger Beckoning someone is done with a palm facing down Avoid
beckoning with your index finger facing up

Avoid talking politics or religion
Good topics: Chinese food, sports or
places one should visit

When exchanging business cards, hold out your card using both hands
with the writing facing the recipient Cards should always be exchanged
individually (one-on-one) Never toss or irdeall- your business card across
the table, as this is considered extremely rude Receive a business card
with both hands and scan it immediately for vital information Then lay
the card in front of you on the table It is demeaning to put someones
card directly into your pocket without looking at it first