CHINA BY: Cameron Davis

All About China Almost 4,000 years of recorded history. One of the world's most ancient civilizations. Contains one-fifth of the world population. Many different ethnic groups and languages. It is a communist state. Its capital is Beijing. President is Hu Jintao.

Business Greetings A short and light, not firm, handshake is the customary start to a business meeting. Address a person using his or her family name only. Avoid using someone’s given name unless you have known him or her for a long period of time.

Business Dress Conservative suits and ties in subdued colors. Bright colors are considered inappropriate. Unostentatious suit and tie are customary for men. Women must take care that their skirts are not above the knees.

Business Cards Should be exchanged at the beginning of a business meeting. It is very important that your business card is engraved in gold. Putting the card immediately into your wallet or briefcase without reading it is an unforgivable insult to the Chinese business culture.

Business Introductions Use formal titles. Often times use a nickname to assist Westerners.

Table Manners it's customary for the host, not the guest, to begin eating first. Expect to hear more noise at the table. Chinese custom allows for making slurping sounds when eating hot soup as a sign of gusto.

Gift Giving The gift is offered using both hands and must be gift-wrapped. Won’t be opened it front of you. Will be set aside and opened later.

Summary Throughout the earliest civilizations in China there have been significant events, movements, and ideas that shaped all aspects of society. Among them are a great diversity of religions, philosophies, arts, languages, myths, dynasties and emperors. Since changes often evolved occurred over a few centuries, many scholars agree that it is difficult to give precise dates on events that have occurred in China.

Sources www.chinaguide.org www.china-window.com www.shanghai.cultural-china.com