Preparing for a business meeting requires a working knowledge of the information to be discussed or presented, careful attention to all details on the printed material to be distributed and perhaps a gift. This gift is a social gesture that may be expected in some countries and could be considered a bribe in others.Knowing the gift guidelines for the country you will be visiting will help make your meeting a success.
Chinese Gift Giving Tradition:
In order not to appear greedy, a gift will not be immediately taken, but refused three times before finally being accepted. Each time it’s refused, you as the giver must graciously continue to offer the gift. And once it’s taken, tell the person you’re happy it’s been accepted. The gift is offered using both hands and must be gift-wrapped; though it won’t be opened it front of you. It will be set aside and opened later. This tradition eliminates any concern that the recipient’s face might show any disappointment with the gift.
In China, official business policy considers gifts as bribes, which are illegal. Though the policy is softening, there may be times when a gift you offer will absolutely not be accepted. Should you find yourself in this situation, graciously say you understand and withdraw it. Waiting until negotiations have concluded will eliminate the appearance of bribery when a gift is presented.
Chinese Gift Giving Tradition:
In order not to appear greedy, a gift will not be immediately taken, but refused three times before finally being accepted. Each time it’s refused, you as the giver must graciously continue to offer the gift. And once it’s taken, tell the person you’re happy it’s been accepted. The gift is offered using both hands and must be gift-wrapped; though it won’t be opened it front of you. It will be set aside and opened later. This tradition eliminates any concern that the recipient’s face might show any disappointment with the gift.
In China, official business policy considers gifts as bribes, which are illegal. Though the policy is softening, there may be times when a gift you offer will absolutely not be accepted. Should you find yourself in this situation, graciously say you understand and withdraw it. Waiting until negotiations have concluded will eliminate the appearance of bribery when a gift is presented.
In Chinese culture symbolism is important, with colors and numbers having special meaning.For instance, at chinese New Year, Money may be given in a red envelope, it must be even amount, using an even number of new bills. Red is a lucky color, pink and yellow represent happiness and the number 8 is the luckiest number. The colors black, white and blue and the number 4 of anything are negatively associated with death or funerals. Also included in this category are clocks, handkerchiefs and straw sandals.
Another example of the importance of color is if a man wears a green hat it indicates his wife has been unfaithful to him. Sharp objects like knives or scissors represent a severing of a friendship or relationship including a business relationship.
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