For an American traveling to China on business for the first time there are some things you should know ahead of time to make your trip more of a success.
1) Tea Drinking
The Chinese love tea. Do not be surprised if you are served tea at a business meeting. I highly suggest you drink it because it is Chinese tradition to share tea in a small ceremony. Not accepting places a cloud over the meeting.
2) Smoking
In America, most states are smoke free. Meaning, no smoking in public buildings, restaurants, etc. China is extremely smoke friendly. Another tradition is to share a cigarette with your host after a meal. Again, this is Chinese tradition and I suggest you take a few puffs no matter if you don’t smoke. This is one more way to connect with your host and ensure good business relations.
3) Traveling
I suggest air travel for all long distance trips within China. The bus and train are not conducive to long distance travel. They are uncomfortable and unsanitary. When traveling within the city, travel by taxi. It is cheap and is the quickest.
4) Hotel
In China, a “5 star” hotel is what we might think of as 3 or 4 star in the US. With that said, I recommend paying a little extra and staying at a familiar name like Hilton, The Four Seasons, etc.
5) Translator
We were lucky enough not to need a translator. When traveling by taxi we simply pointed to a spot on the map and we got there. Our host also spoke English, which was a plus. In another business meeting where our host did not speak English, he provided the translator.
6) Sourcing services and products
I recommend doing this ahead of time via the internet. Sites like EC21 and Ali Baba can help you find companies and businesses of interest. Once you are in country, your internet access might be limited and your time is short.
