Ventures Dialogue

What’s wrong with this story:
Jason Tempo walks into his first in-person business meeting with Mr. James Tsang, the CEO a Hong Kong firm he had arranged to meet. He initially says, “Sorry, George, for being 10 minutes late, I got lost”.  After the apologies, Jason kindly accepts the CEO’s business card, quickly puts it in his pocket and realizes he has left his own cards in his other suit jacket. Jason’s alarm clock was incorrectly set so he woke up late and didn’t have a chance to put on the suit he planned to wear. This, by the way, also contributed to him getting lost. As the conversation progresses, Jason gets the feeling that the meeting is not going to so well. It seems strange to him because the two have been exchanging emails quite frequently for the past few months. This face-to-face meeting could have started and ended much better. What could Jason have done differently? Keep reading to find out what he did wrong and some other tips to ensure you don’t commit any blunders on your next Hong Kong business trip.

1. The Handshake. Shaking hands is a common and widely accepted form of greeting, a definite must-do in Hong Kong.
2. Business Cards. After the handshake, the exchange of business cards is another important step.  Cards are frequently exchanged.  If you do not offer yours, it is seen as snub and that you don’t want to do business. Business cards are exchanged in both business as well as social settings, so be prepared at all times. A business card should be given and received with both hands. When giving a card, it should be presented right-side up, facing the receiver. When receiving a card, it is important to look at the card before putting into your pocket, cardholder or placing it on a table.
3. Business Card Tip. An added bonus is to have your business card printed so that one side is English and the other in Chinese.
4. Etiquette. Courtesy, respect, and punctuality are important. Being too polite is never a problem. Stay composed no matter then situation and whenever possible provide introductions.  It is said Hong Kong has gotten more polite since the transfer of sovereignty from the British in 1997.
5. The Name Game (What’s in a Name). Chinese names are said with the family name (surname) first, then generational name (a name shared by each member of a generation), then given name.  You may also see a hyphen placed after the generational name and before the given name. It is also common for men to use initials for the generational and given names.  The family name however is not abbreviated.  For example, Mr. James Tsang could also be written as C.J. Tsang, or Tsang Chen-George. If a person has a title or professional name, they should be used, if not Mr., Madam, Mrs. or Ms. is appropriate.
6. Business Attire. Business attire is the norm. For men, jackets and ties are even worn in restaurants and clubs. Suites are normally dark blue with a pinstripe. For women, a dark suit is the usual as well. In a business setting, Hong Kong businesspeople do not usually express their individuality through their clothes, if at all — it usually comes out in more subtle ways.
7. Gift-Giving. As with business cards, gifts should be given with both hands. They should not be opened on the spot as it is considered a sign of greediness and impatience. So acting like a child on Christmas morning will not win you any points. Brand names are a plus as they are status symbols. Do not give a clock or a blanket as gift. Clocks signify death and blankets are thought to signify declining prosperity. As well, avoid sets of four or wrapping gifts in white.  Both are synonymous with funerals.  For the Chinese New Year, it is usual to give Lai See, which is a red envelope or packet containing money, usually a Hong Kong twenty dollar bill. This is usually given to children and non-governmental people you deal with regularly, such as a doorman or newspaper person. New even numbered bills are to be used, signifying good luck and prosperity.
8. Eating. Eating and drinking is a major part of the culture (business as well as social) with many rituals and traditions. So don’t miss out on sharing a meal with prospective or current business partners.  It is a great way to reinforce relationships.
9. Eating Etiquette. Having wine at meals is expected. Also expected is having refined table manners. Meals are usually done family-style and it is encouraged that you try everything.  Do not take the last piece however, this too can be seen as greedy.  As well if you are allergic to anything specific, it is wise to inform your host so he or she knows up front. One unique point is not to turn over a fish, it is thought to cause a fishing boat to capsize.
10. To Toast or Not to Toast. After the host says a toast, you should be prepared with a toast of your own.  Nothing fancy, but one that wishes prosperity, health and well wishes for all will do.  While it may be a business meeting, socializing comes first when meals are shared.

Photo by mischiru