Business Card Etiquette in Asia

The old adage that you only get one chance to make a good first impression definitely applies when it comes to exchanging business cards in Asia.

Westerners treat business cards with a casual tone, and often consider them a nice leave-behind item. However, your business partners in Asia consider a business card in a much more serious context. It is an integral part of your introduction, and the card has an important place during your meeting.

There are three key components to successfully presenting a business card in Asia. The first involves the information on the card. It’s good practice to present a two-sided card, with one side printed in your native language and the other the language of your host. The information on the card should explain who you are, including your name, contact information, company, and position.

The presentation of business cards is a ritual in Asian and should be treated with respect. Your card should always be presented while standing, with both hands. The card should also be placed directly into the hands of your host, as well as each member of his or her team, in order of hierarchy. Present your card with the translated side facing your Asian associate in order to show respect and sincerity in establishing this relationship.

When you receive your associate’s business card, study it momentarily, and clarify how your host wants you to address him or her.

Finally, it is customary to keep your associate’s card on the table in front of you during the meeting. Never stack the cards, write on them, or treat them in a cavalier manner, such as stuffing them in a pocket or throwing them into a briefcase. All these actions are considered bad manners. You should also avoid presenting a damaged business card, as you host could interpret it as a sign of disrespect.

If you’re planning a trip to Asia to meet with potential global sourcing partners, Mawson Global can help. Our team is familiar with business card customs, as well as others important to building strong business relationships in Asia. Let us help you make your trip and partnership a success -- contact us today!

Mawson Global is excited to release their newest service for Australian businesses – the “Are you Asia Ready?” audit kit.

The “Are you Asia Ready?” audit helps business owners understand how Asia can impact their business and better educates them on which of their products could be sourced globally and which products or services could be sold internationally. The audit provides real numbers so businesses do not miss or overestimate the impact of importing and exporting.

Part One – Can I buy better?

By directly sourcing products from Asia, an organization could easily see hundreds of thousands in annual savings. To minimize the risk of direct sourcing, the business will need to establish procedures and dedicate resources to professional procurement.  This part of the audit provides real numbers to make sure the financial benefits of direct import outweigh the increased resources you need to deploy. 

Part Two – Can I sell more?

The second piece of the audit examines the pros and cons of exporting to Asia. Through this audit, businesses better understand competition, market size, and distribution channels so they can create a successful market entry strategy.

Typically introduced to Mawson Global through partners around the country, clients are able to work with their trusted business advisers to determine the course of action which will likely lead to the most impactful affect to their business.

If you are interested in learning more about the “Are you Asia Ready?” audit program, please contact a representative at Mawson Global today!

5 tips for doing business in China

China is the largest supplier of goods to the United States, and the trade of goods and services between the two nations is a multi-billion dollar relationship. But in order to gain a foothold in the global sourcing industry, there are some cultural and business customs you will do well to adhere to if you want successful.

Mawson Global can act as a liaison between you and suppliers, and accompany you on overseas supplier visits and meetings. However, there are some important customs you need to be aware of before you go. Here’s a quick guide to get you through the trip embarrassment-free.

• Relationships before business. There is a saying in China that you don’t discuss business until the third cup of tea. The Chinese place great importance and value in developing relationships first and conducting business second. The best course of action is to learn about your host’s country, culture, interests, and share your own interests. Once trust and cooperation has been established, then get down to business.
• Always be on time. While the Chinese are occasionally late to meetings, your punctuality is a sign of respect. The pace of business in China is somewhat different; so don’t be put off if your hosts are late to a meeting. Just don’t cause the delay!
• Pay attention to your body language. Talking with your hands, pointing, waving, and gesturing are rude in China. Talking with your hands in your pockets is also disrespectful. Even a simple handshake should be handled in a modest manner. Too firm a grip, too much hand pumping, or too long of a handshake can be considered aggressive. Also, it’s customary to pass and offer things, such as dishes at a meal, with your right hand rather than your left.
• Keep a calm demeanour.  Avoid being overly boisterous or too forward with potential business partners. Instead, approach business negotiations with a calm demeanour, patience, and dignity, and you’ll win the day.
• Be prepared to dine and drink. Entertaining is a vital component to Chinese business culture. The Chinese like to conduct business over lunch or dinner, and they enjoy having drinks during and after the meal! Business deals often are completed over a meal. Make sure that you plan for this in your daily schedule.

With a team located in Qingdao, China, Mawson Global is uniquely positioned to assist you with your global sourcing ventures in China. Please contact us to learn more about how we can help you during visits, as well as with other global sourcing needs! 

After-Hours Business Entertaining in Asia: To Karaoke, or Not to Karaoke?

When you’re traveling for business in Asia or any part of the world unfamiliar to you, it’s wise to be familiar with local customs regarding business entertaining.

You may be invited by suppliers, customers, and associates to meet after hours – in a more informal setting than daytime meetings. These interactions are equally important as daytime meeting in forging business relationships.

Hosts are usually appreciative of visitors who demonstrate knowledge about their culture, as well as the ability to converse in his or her language, so make an effort to do both. The following is a quick guide to navigating after-hours business functions.

Dining
In Asian countries, seating is very important at a formal meal, and guests should wait to be seated by the host to avoid being disrespectful. It’s also polite to try everything served during a meal. Take a bite of each dish – even if it seems unappealing – and be sure to give your compliments to the host.  If you enjoy the meal, eat up -- a clean plate is a good thing in Asian countries! However, be aware that your host may insist that you keep eating, even if you are full.

Karaoke
Karaoke bars are a common form of entertainment in Asian countries. If your host suggests visiting one and you agree, be ready to participate! Agreeing to go to a karaoke bar means you are willing to sing!  Men often receive unsolicited attention from women in these establishments. Be aware that most of it comes at a price to you or your host. Remember, you are there on business; have fun, but conduct yourself in a professional manner.

Drinking
Alcohol is an important part of building business relationships. If you don’t drink, politely inform your host in advance. Toasts are a big part of Asia’s culture, so if they are offered, it’s polite to take part. You may also ask your host if you can offer a toast to them and the success of your relationship.

Navigating Business After-Hours
If you’re working on forging business relationships in China or other Asian nations, Mawson Global can help with every aspect of the endeavor -- from efficiently arranging flights, hotels, and other transportation to advising you on the proper way to deal with businesspeople.

Mawson Global has representatives on site who are familiar with local businesses and industries. We can help you and your company forge new overseas relationships – and even suggest a karaoke song or two!