Whether you are looking to open an office in China or just looking to form a partnership with a Chinese company there are several nuances that are beneficial to understand about their business etiquette. Making sure that you do your homework and comply with their traditional way of doing business will increase your success and can improve your negotiation terms with your potential Chinese partners.
Attending and Conducting Meetings
If there are two tips that you should take away from the business etiquette of meetings in China, they are regarding punctuality and figuring out who is actually in charge. Although the meetings may be a little more ritualistic in nature they follow the same format as any meeting that you are used to going to. Making sure that you check the Chinese calendar will help to make sure that you are not trying to schedule meeting around any of their national holidays, such as Chinese New Year. Spend a little extra time preparing and getting to know their business, as they have spent a great deal understanding yours. It is definitely crucial to make sure that you have an interpreter and bringing your own is the best way to ensure that you get the most balanced conversation.
Addressing others
Seniority is highly valued in China and it is important to address everyone in a business setting by their respective titles (Chairman, Director, Vice President, etc.) It is imperative to find the most senior person in the room and address them first.
Handshakes
For a business meeting or encounter there are usually a set of handshakes at the beginning of the meeting and to conclude the interaction. The key is not to be too aggressive and don?t be offended if your Chinese partners offer a weak handshake. At the end of the meeting you may also find yourself in a prolonged handshake where it is customary to keep the contact for a while longer than you are probably used to.
Giving/Receiving business cards
Similar to the introductions you want to make sure that you hand your business card to the most senior official first. It is also customary to offer your cards with both hands as if you were presenting a gift. If you can, have your title translated into Chinese, as this will be how your hosts decide who should be invited to which event and where you will be seated.
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Source: http://china-business-connect.com/business-etiquette-in-china.htm
Handshake is basic etiquette not only in business dealings but also in social gathering. People who start business for the first time generally do this mistake that they forget to shake hands with the second party.
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Eton