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The most populous country on earth is China, with over 1.3 billion people, though the country also has an ageing population. China is a huge country and offers many business opportunities, which will only be realised by companies who research and plan well. The biggest barriers to successful trade in China are the language and culture.
Doing successful business in China is about making the right connections, developing long-term business relationships and reciprocating favours generously. In business, the Chinese almost always 'save face' so it's a good idea to 'give face' by allowing your Chinese colleagues to speak English and by complimenting them on their houses, offices and making polite enquiries about their families.
When meeting and greeting business people in China you should be on-time and well dressed. Typically, you will be introduced to the most senior person first. Business cards should be exchanged with two hands, as this demonstrates your respect.
When dealing with the Chinese, patience is a virtue. They are highly-skilled, tough negotiators and think about the 'long term' more than we do, so it is advisable to be well prepared for meetings and clearly understand your key points.
The official language in China is Mandarin, though in Guangdong, the South and Hong Kong, Cantonese is spoken. Written Chinese is based on a system of characters.
In China they believe that those who attempt to speak some Chinese are showing their admiration and respect for China, so even having a few basic phrases under your belt will go a long way towards building a good business relationship.
If you are attending important negotiations in China you are advised to use a professional interpreter to get the most out of the meeting and avoid embarrassing mistakes. Once you have found an interpreter, make sure that they are fully aware of your goals and objectives before they begin the assignment. Let interpreters have copies of speeches and presentations in advance. Be aware that interpretations may take much longer than the original speech. Speak slowly, clearly and pause regularly. Avoid long complex sentences and jargon.
Written documentation should, likewise, be professionally translated to ensure that potential clients grasp the nature of your business and also to demonstrate respect towards your hosts' language and culture.
Doing successful business in China is about making the right connections, developing long-term business relationships and reciprocating favours generously. In business, the Chinese almost always 'save face' so it's a good idea to 'give face' by allowing your Chinese colleagues to speak English and by complimenting them on their houses, offices and making polite enquiries about their families.
When meeting and greeting business people in China you should be on-time and well dressed. Typically, you will be introduced to the most senior person first. Business cards should be exchanged with two hands, as this demonstrates your respect.
When dealing with the Chinese, patience is a virtue. They are highly-skilled, tough negotiators and think about the 'long term' more than we do, so it is advisable to be well prepared for meetings and clearly understand your key points.
The official language in China is Mandarin, though in Guangdong, the South and Hong Kong, Cantonese is spoken. Written Chinese is based on a system of characters.
In China they believe that those who attempt to speak some Chinese are showing their admiration and respect for China, so even having a few basic phrases under your belt will go a long way towards building a good business relationship.
If you are attending important negotiations in China you are advised to use a professional interpreter to get the most out of the meeting and avoid embarrassing mistakes. Once you have found an interpreter, make sure that they are fully aware of your goals and objectives before they begin the assignment. Let interpreters have copies of speeches and presentations in advance. Be aware that interpretations may take much longer than the original speech. Speak slowly, clearly and pause regularly. Avoid long complex sentences and jargon.
Written documentation should, likewise, be professionally translated to ensure that potential clients grasp the nature of your business and also to demonstrate respect towards your hosts' language and culture.
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For language advice on doing business with China please contact the Regional Language Network West Midlands
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