Culture and context
Language and culture are inseparable, and this is especially true for Chinese. Many concepts essential to Chinese communication — face, hierarchy, indirect expression — don't translate directly into English. Understanding these cultural dimensions isn't optional for effective communication; it's the foundation everything else builds upon.
Face (面子, miànzi)
"Face" may be the most important concept in Chinese social interaction. It encompasses dignity, reputation, prestige, and social standing. Every interaction either gives, takes, or protects face. Learning to navigate face dynamics is essential for successful relationships:
"Face" represents dignity, respect, and reputation. It's central to Chinese social interaction:
- Giving face: Complimenting, showing respect
- Losing face: Public embarrassment, criticism
- Saving face: Helping someone avoid embarrassment
Avoid direct confrontation or criticism in public.
Guanxi (关系)
Guanxi (relationships, connections) is the network of mutual obligations that underlies Chinese society. Business often runs on personal relationships more than contracts or institutions. Building guanxi takes time — shared meals, gift-giving, doing favours — but creates lasting bonds that facilitate everything from business deals to solving problems.
Communication style
Chinese communication style differs significantly from Western directness. Harmony, face, and hierarchy all influence how messages are conveyed. Understanding these patterns helps you read between the lines.
Indirect communication
Chinese speakers often communicate indirectly to preserve harmony and avoid causing anyone to lose face. This isn't evasiveness — it's respect. Learning to read these indirect signals prevents misunderstandings:
- "Maybe" or "We'll see" may mean "no"
- Silence or changing the subject may indicate disagreement
- Read context and non-verbal cues
Forms of address
- Use titles: 老师 (lǎoshī, teacher), 经理 (jīnglǐ, manager)
- 先生 (xiānsheng, Mr.), 女士 (nǚshì, Ms.)
- Surname + title is common
Greetings
Chinese greetings are generally less physical than Western ones. The handshake is standard in business (introduced from the West), but bowing or a slight nod also shows respect. Unlike in the West, "How are you?" questions in Chinese often ask about practical matters like eating.
- Handshakes are standard in business
- A slight nod shows respect
- Avoid excessive physical contact
- 你吃了吗？(Have you eaten?) is a casual greeting
Dining culture
Dining is central to Chinese business and social life. Business deals are often sealed over meals. Understanding table etiquette — who orders, who pays, how to toast — is essential for making a good impression.
At the table
- Host orders and pays
- Toast with 干杯 (gānbēi, "dry cup")
- Leaving some food shows you're satisfied
- Use both hands to receive business cards
Tea culture
- Accept tea with a nod of thanks
- Tap fingers on table to say thanks (Cantonese tradition)
- Leave lid slightly open if you want a refill
Numbers
Numbers carry cultural significance in China that doesn't exist in the West. Certain numbers are considered extremely lucky or unlucky based on how they sound in Chinese. This affects everything from phone numbers to building floors to wedding dates:
| Number | Significance |
|---|---|
| 4 | Unlucky (sounds like "death" 死) |
| 8 | Very lucky (sounds like "wealth" 发) |
| 6 | Good (smooth, flowing) |
| 9 | Long-lasting |
Prices often feature 8s; buildings may skip floor 4.
Holidays
Chinese holidays are important for business planning. Major holidays like Spring Festival (Chinese New Year) effectively shut down the country for a week or more. Understanding these periods prevents scheduling conflicts and shows cultural awareness:
| Holiday | Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 春节 (Spring Festival) | Jan/Feb | Most important; week-long holiday |
| 中秋节 (Mid-Autumn) | September | Mooncakes, family reunions |
| 国庆节 (National Day) | October 1 | Week-long "Golden Week" |