|
Before your
visit, it will be a good idea to prepare yourself by studying aspects
of Chinese culture, history, and geography. Your hosts will appreciate
your initiative.
Negative replies
are considered impolite. Instead of saying "no", answer "maybe",
"I'll think about it", or "We'll see" and get into specifics later.
You'll find that the Chinese will do the same.
You may be asked
intrusive questions concerning your age, income, and marital status.
If you don't want to reveal this information, remain polite and
give an unspecific answer. Don't express irritation with the questioner,
since "losing face" has such negative implications in this culture.
In Chinese
culture, the question "Have you eaten?" is the equivalent to "How
are you?" in North America; it's just a superficial inquiry that
does not require a literal-minded, detailed answer. Simply answer,
"yes", even if you haven't actually eaten.
Make an effort
to learn and use at least a few words in Chinese; your initiative
will be noticed and appreciated.
You may make
inquiries about the health of another's family.
During a meal,
expressing enthusiasm about the food you are eating is a welcome,
and usually expected, topic of conversation.
Do not be surprised
or dismayed if there are periods of silence during your business
or dinner conversations. It is a sign of politeness and of thought.
Do not be quick to fill the silence with words. Also, be careful
not to interrupt during a conversation.
"Small talk"
is considered especially important at the beginning of a meeting;
any of the topics suggested in the next set of points will be appropriate
for this occasion.
Welcome
Topics of Conversation:
Chinese
scenery, landmarks
Weather, climate, and geography in China
Your travels in other countries
Your positive experiences traveling in China
Chinese art
Topics
to Avoid:
Avoid
mentioning Taiwan. If the subject comes up, never refer to this
country as "The Republic of China" or "Nationalist China." The correct
term is "Taiwan Province", or just "Taiwan." Refrain from using
the terms such as "Red China" or "Communist China."
|
:
