As Zimbabwe and China trade surpassed the USD One Billion mark in September 2016, making the two countries important trade partners, there is need for the Zimbabwean entrepreneur and executive to understand basic business etiquette with the Chinese.
With increasing globalization comes the need for more and more people to do business with the Chinese. As a result, many in the Dig Mandarin audience seek to improve their business vocabulary.
While language is important in bridging an intercontinental relationship, the cultural expectations and etiquette behind the language are even more essential. Developing insights into the Chinese business culture and social etiquette of China will help you avoid miscommunication and potential misunderstandings. When it comes to Chinese business etiquette, there is just one overarching rule: When in China, do as the Chinese do!
Chinese people are very time conscious, avoid being late, even by 30seconds just avoid it. Chinese people can show up even an hour prior to the scheduled time. Everything around them evolves around time. When hosting Chinese, when it’s midday make sure lunch is served and when is 6o’clock make sure you are serving them with supper. Everything around them evolves around time even their eating habits.
If the Chinese your host, know the language capabilities of your hosts beforehand. Have your own language consultant if your hosts know little English. Have a detailed proposition of the value of your company and product. Have Chinese-language materials to share with your hosts. Chinese businesses often meet with numerous foreign businesses seeking to establish relationships. So capture their attention at the first meeting to secure follow-up. The host will take the lead, and you will likely have a name card or designated seat based on your role in your company.
A formal meeting will start with the senior member of the hosting party introducing himself/herself and colleagues, then stating his/her position on the matter in question. The leading member of your party should then do the same. Subordinate members of the Chinese party will not usually speak unless asked to do so by the most senior person; your observance of the same protocol will have the advantage of conveying who is in authority and who may have special expertise.
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