Hong Kong Business Meeting Etiquette

Once again, meeting etiquette will differ radically depending on the type of company being dealt with.

Meetings with the larger Hong Kong multi-nationals or with local offices of other multi-nationals are likely to follow a fairly standard meeting style with agendas, minutes etc. On the other hand, meetings conducted with the smaller entrepreneurial type organisations could be much more informal in nature with a fairly relaxed approach being taken.

However, certain characteristics are likely to be constant regardless of the background of the people being met. Thus, it is always important to show the correct level of respect for the key player, which could include standing as they enter the room or offering them the seat of honour around the table. Try to address issues through the senior person – even if he or she is not the best English speaker. It is very easy to become seduced into addressing only a junior member of a Hong Kong delegation simply because they speak good English (or whatever the language of the meeting might be.)

Discussions are likely to be diplomatic and polite but when things are becoming difficult, there is the possibility of raised emotions and voices (unlike in a country such as Japan.) Try to remain calm and in control at all times. Harmony is still the ideal in Hong Kong even if the pursuit of money can sometimes make it difficult to attain!

Gift Giving

As in other Chinese cultures gift giving is endemic. The giving and receiving of gifts are viewed as an element in the ritual of business relationship development. Although relationships may be less important in Hong Kong than on the mainland or in Taiwan, much benefit can accrue from cultivating the right people.

It is not necessary to give expensive gifts – it is the gift-giving which is important. Gifts should be wrapped and are often refused two or three times before being accepted. They are rarely opened in front of the giver.

Author

This country-specific business culture profile was written by Keith Warburton who is the founder of the cultural awareness training consultancy Global Business Culture. 

Global Business culture is a leading training provider in the fields of cross-cultural communication and global virtual team working.  We provide training to global corporations in live classroom-based formats, through webinars and also through our cultural awareness digital learning hub, Global Business Compass.

This World Business Culture profile is designed as an introduction to business culture in Hong Kong only and a more detailed understanding needs a more in-depth exploration which we can provide through our training and consultancy services.