DOING BUSINESS IN CHINA
Improved international relations, government reforms, an expanding economy and increased foreign investment make doing business in China a potentially lucrative affair.

Be prepared: Doing business in China means that business people will come into increasingly frequent contact with Chinese business people and officials. It is imperative that those doing business in China learn about areas such business culture, business etiquette, meeting protocol and negotiation techniques in order to maximise the potential of their business trip.

In this short guide to doing business in China, a few cultural facts and their influence on business culture and etiquette are explored. These are in no way meant to represent a comprehensive summary of tips on doing business in China but a highlighting of some important key areas one may encounter.

Confucianism
In essence Confucianism revolves around the concept of harmonious relationships. If proper behaviour through duty, respect and loyalty are shown in the relationships between a ruler-subject, husband-wife, father-son, brother-brother and friend-friend, society as a whole will function smoothly.

When doing business in China it is possible to see how Confucianism affects business practices. Of the less subtle manifestations are an aversion to conflict, maintenance of proper demeanour and the preservation of ‘face’.

Face
Roughly translated as ‘good reputation’, ‘respect’ or ‘honour,’ one must learn the subtleties of the concept and understand the possible impact it could have on your doing business in China.

There are four categories of face. 1) where one’s face is lessened through their involvement in an action or deed and it being exposed. The loss of face is not the result of the action, but rather it’s being made public knowledge. 2) when face is given to others through compliments and respect. 3) face is developed through experience and age. When one shows wisdom in action by avoiding mistakes their face is increased. 4) where face is increased through the compliments of others made about you to a third party.

It is critical that you give face, save face and show face when doing business in China.

Meeting
Doing business always involves meeting and greeting people. In China, meetings start with the shaking of hands and a slight nod of the head. Be sure not to be overly vigorous when shaking hands as the Chinese will interpret this as aggressive.

The Chinese are not keen on physical contact - especially when doing business. The only circumstance in which it may take place is when a host is guiding a guest. Even then contact will only be made by holding a cuff or sleeve. Be sure not to slap, pat or put your arm around someone’s shoulders.

Body language and movement are both areas you should be conscious of when doing business in China. You should always be calm, collected and controlled. Body posture should always be formal and attentive as this shows you have self-control and are worthy of respect.

Shaking or Bowing?

When you meet a Chinese person for the first time, don't bow! This is a Japanese custom, not Chinese. Chinese people shake hands, much like in the West. Although not originally a Chinese custom, it is popular and commonly done in China now, so give your colleage a smile and shake his or her hand.

Exchanging Business Cards:

Chinese are big fans of business cards, so make sure you have some when you come. It is very cheap to have business cards printed in China, so if you forget them then you can still have some made here. It is always nice to have cards in both Chinese and English (or whatever your mother tongue is), but if you don't it's okay. Chinese will want to exchange business cards with you when they meet you. How you treat their business card is a direct extension of the respect you have for that person. You should accept your colleague's business card with both hands between the thumb and forefinger of each hand. Similarly, when giving your card you should present it with both hands holding it in the same manner. Don't take your colleague's card and put it in your pocket or briefcase right away! Instead, study it for a moment (this is a good time to make sure you remember your colleague's name and position) and then either keep holding it, or if sitting set it politely on the table in front of you. Be very careful not to wrinkle it or spill something on it; treat it with respect as you would your colleague. Later, when it is time to go carefully place it in your briefcase or notebook rather than shoving it in your pocket.

Building Relationships

Relationships in China are very formal. Remember, when doing business you are representing your company so always keep dealings at a professional level. Never become too informal and avoid humour. This is not because the Chinese are humourless but rather jokes may be lost in translation and hence be redundant.

When doing business in China establishing a contact to act as an intermediary is important. This brings with it multiple benefits. They can act as a reference, be your interpreter and navigate you through the bureaucracy, legal system and local business networks.

Giving Gift Etiquette
Unlike many countries, the giving of gifts does not carry any negative connotations when doing business in China. Gifts should always be exchanged for celebrations, as thanks for assistance and even as a sweetener for future favours. However, it is important not to give gifts in the absence of a good reason or a witness. This may be construed differently.

When the Chinese want to buy gifts it is not uncommon for them to ask what you would like. Do not be shy to specify something you desire. However, it would be wise to demonstrate an appreciation of Chinese culture by asking for items such as ink paintings or tea.

Business gifts are always reciprocated. They are seen as debts that must be repaid. When giving gifts do not give cash. They need to be items of worth or beauty. Do not be too frugal with your choice of gift otherwise you will be seen as an ‘iron rooster’, i.e. getting a good gift out of you is like getting a feather out of an iron rooster.

Meetings and Negotiations
Meetings must be made in advance. Preferably some literature regarding your company should be forwarded to introduce the company. Try and book meetings between April – June and September – October. Avoid all national holidays especially Chinese New Year.

Punctuality is vital when doing business in China. Ensure you are early as late arrivals are seen as an insult. Meetings should begin with some brief small talk. If this is your first meeting then talk of your experiences in China so far. Keep it positive and avoid anything political.

Prior to any meeting always send an agenda. This will allow you to have some control of the flow of the meeting. The Chinese approach meetings differently, so rather than beginning with minor or side issues and working your way up to the core issue, reverse this.

The Chinese are renowned for being tough negotiators. Their primary aim in negotiations is ‘concessions’. Always bear this in mind when formulating your own strategy. You must be willing to show compromise and ensure their negotiators feel they have gained major concessions.

Make sure you have done your homework before doing business in China. The Chinese plan meticulously and will know your business and possibly you inside out.

One known strategy for Chinese negotiators is to begin negotiations showing humility and deference. This is designed to present themselves as vulnerable and weak. You, the stronger, will be expected to help them through concessions.

Above all, be patient and never show anger or frustration. Practise your best ‘poker face’ before negotiating with the Chinese. Once they see you are uncomfortable they will exploit the weakness. Decisions will take a long time either because there is a lack of urgency, simultaneous negotiations are taking place with competitors or because the decision makers are not confident enough.

Doing Business in China
The above few examples of differences in culture, business practices, business etiquette and protocol demonstrate the number of areas where business people can face challenges. Cross cultural understanding is an important tool for any international business person, company or organisation to acquire when doing business abroad. Looking forward, doing business in China will gain more importance as its potential continues to grow.

CHINA TIPS

Notebook Computers
Most notebooks can be configured to work in China. Just remember that China is on 220AC current so check the power adaptor for your notebook. Most power adaptors will have a range, such as 100-240, etc. As long as your computer can handle 220AC you can plug it directly into a power strip in China. If not, you will need an adaptor.

The next thing you probably want to know is what about Internet? Well, it is not that difficult to configure most notebooks to be able to get online. You can buy prepaid cards that have service provider numbers and passwords on them. Using the information on the card you can make a new connection on your computer and then connect to the internet. Internet cafes are really cheap in China.

If you plan to do a lot of travelling while in China and your laptop is not that important for you to have, then you might want to consider leaving it at home. If you will probably just stay in Beijing and want the added convenience, or you need it for work purposes, then by all means we recommend that you do bring it.

Mobile Telephones
Mobile phones (cell phones) are all over China! You will notice the minute that you arrive in the airport because everyone will be pulling out their newest model phone to call someone. It is very easy to purchase a mobile phone and get an account set up in China and also extremely convenient to have. There are no complicated service plans and really not that many choices. Telephones are sold separately from accounts, if you wish or need to purchase a mobile phone in China. Accounts are prepaid--you purchase a small SIM card that fits inside your telephone and that also can hold data. This SIM card contains your China mobile telephone number. Then, all you have to do is purchase time for your phone via prepaid cards you can find at almost any small shop. Very convenient. When you run out of minutes there is a message that tells you and you simply recharge by purchasing another time card and calling the service centre to add the minutes in. All services are in English and Mandarin.
If you want to use a mobile phone that you already have, you will have to make sure it can be used in China. China is on the GSM network. For example, Nokia phones in China use the GSM900, GSM1800, and EGSM900 bandwidths. Many Triband telephones can also be used in China. Most mobile phones purchased in the United States or Japan cannot be used in China, whereas many phones purchased in Europe, Australia and Hong Kong can be used in China. If you are not sure, check with the manufacturer in your area about your phone.

Electricity and Adaptors
If you plan on bringing any electrical devices, just remember that China is on 220V AC current. If your accessories were manufactured for a different voltage, you will need an adaptor. This is not only an extension that changes the size or shape of the prongs! It actually converts the electrical current to 220. Extension cords can be purchased easily in Beijing. Adaptors can be purchased in China but best to bring a reliable brand from home if you need one. Adaptors due tend to get very hot after prolonged use, however, so remember this if you might be using the appliance for a long time. Also, for small appliances such as hair dryers, you might also consider simply purchasing a new one in China. Weigh the cost of the device versus the cost of the adaptor.

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