Intercultural Business Etiquette

China
Communication style
• Most Chinese speak in an indirect manner. There is usually
deeper meaning in their words and sometimes what they
mean is quite opposite to what they say.
• Chinese tend to stand a little less than arm’s length from
one another.
• Chinese favor direct eye contact.
Gestures
• Do not beckon with the forefinger, but extend an arm and
make a scratching motion with the fingers.
• Do not point using the index finger, but use an open palm.
• Do not use your feet to move something or put your feet
on furniture.
• Do not whistle or snap your fingers at anyone.
• Do not use large hand movements. The Chinese do not
speak with their hands and your movements may be
distracting to your host.
• Do not stick your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice as it is
reserved for funerals. Avoid sucking and biting your
chopsticks as well.