Doing Business in China (Part 1, Pre-Meeting)

Time is money

In China, you should always make sure time on your side. The reason is that you should never be late to any occasion. Being on time is considered a virtue, showing respect, saving face, and everything in between. It is very important. If you are late one time, this can hurt the relationship between the two parties.

There is another reason why being on time is so important. Most traditional companies believe in Feng Shui. Before making a deal or opening a new business, they always consult the stars for the lucky hour or day to do so. If you are late or past the Feng Shui hour, you might need to wait for another time to be chosen. Once again, BE CAREFUL.

However, Chinese people often probably will be late. So try not to be offended. How ironic.

When in a meeting, please do not look at your watch too often. This action means that you have something to do rather than be there, or you just want to hurry up and finish the deal. Something to think about, if that is your habit.

I'd like to make an appointment...

Now, let me give you a scenario to see if you can find a solution for it. In China, a company will only be willing to see you if you have an invitation (appointment). Furthermore, big companies in China will only make a deal with a well-known foreign company.

But, let's say your company is not very big, what do you do? Now, don't peek below.

According to the professionals, their advice is to hire a representative in China. In the late 1990s, you could find this type of representative at the Embassy or Chamber of Commerce.

business in china and travel

Today is the year 2008 and there might be some outside agencies or consultants that will do exactly the same thing. But, I would recommend using the Embassy or Chamber of Commerce if you can.

Having the Embassy's representative on your side can give your creditability to your company. Their job is to maintain a presence for your company in China. Also, they will be the one giving information about your company to the other side, which makes the process of obtaining the invitation easier.

When making an appointment for a meeting, you should make it out about 2 weeks, 3 weeks, or even a month ahead of time. Definitely try to avoid making a business trip in the beginning of February. It is also known as the Chinese New Year. During this time, nobody will open for business, and people normally take off about two to three weeks to celebrate.

Also, you should plan on making multiple trips for one deal, and do not expect to accomplish everything on the first trip. The first trip can considered like being on a first date. The goal is to build a relationship.

Most of the business men and women I talk to recommend that you should not make a reservation for a return trip beforehand. Often, you may need to stay longer than expected.

Thank you, ladies and gentlemen for staying with me all the way through. It is just the beginning of a business meeting, and hopefully, I did not miss anything. If I do, I will try to add it on later, I'm sorry for all the inconvenience.

When I know how to put a comment session on to my website, you can leave your opinion. Until then, from where I am and wherever you are, have a good night, everybody.

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Raphita Tobing