There can be complications in the procedure for starting business in China. You may need advice. Here JyS gives you some useful tips:
China business informationA short and light, not firm,
China business information handshake is the customary start to a business meeting. It is advisable to start the meeting with 'small talk' and only after that to pass on to business matters. During the meeting it is customary to address your Chinese colleagues with the title that signifies their status: "Professor Chen" or "Mr. Chen" or Miss Chen" with the name that follows the title being the surname and not a first name.
China business informationBusiness cards should be exchanged at the beginning of a business meeting.
China business information Take care before the meeting to have an adequate supply of business cards - at least 30. The Chinese appreciate it when one side of the business card presented is in Chinese. On accepting a business card from your Chinese colleagues, show your interest by glancing at the details of the card. Putting the card immediately into your wallet or briefcase without reading it is an unforgivable insult to the Chinese business culture.
China business informationIt is important, during the course of the conversation, to be aware of the speech culture in China. Never say "no". Instead, you can respond with "I'll look into that" or "I'll see what I can do in this matter",
China business information etc. When presenting your position at a meeting, speak slowly with short pauses between the sentences. It is worthwhile to allow your Chinese opposite number to understand your intentions properly. Never, during the course of a business meeting, refer to a deadline. Do not become agitated if there are pauses in speech on the part of the Chinese. This is an accepted custom and the pauses are a sign of measured and considered thought in Chinese culture. Do not expect an immediate reaction from your Chinese colleagues. The Chinese like to consolidate their position in a measured and considered fashion, preferably after they have established a personal contact, before closing the deal.
The accepted style of dress for a business meeting in China is conservative.- a dark colored, unostentatious suit and tie are customary for men. Bright colored clothes are considered unacceptable. Women must take care that their skirts are not above the knees; good quality jewelry that is neither ostentatious nor overly expensive, is recommended for making the right impression.
Do not arrange business meetings around the times of Chinese festivals. Similarly, it is important to remember that late arrival to a meeting is considered a serious insult to the Chinese. It may well entail the failure of the entire meeting. It is recommended to bring a translator to the meeting who can translate for you and assist in explaining business customs according to Chinese formalities.