Hong Kong Business Travel Tips and Etiquette

The Orient is a totally different place from the western civilizations in public behavior as well as business practices. When doing business in Hong Kong it is very important to understand protocol, etiquette and acceptable manners. What's perfectly fine to do or say in America may be strictly taboo overseas.

Make appointments well in advance and plan to be on time to show respect. Simple apologies are not satisfactory if you arrive late. Apologize again and again even if the delay was no fault of your own. If your Hong Kong associate is late avoid showing any negative feelings about it if you want to be seen as a reasonable person. Business hours are similar to the U.S., with most offices open from nine to five. Saturdays are often seen as business days with shorter hours, usually from nine to one. Many businesses are closed from noon to two for lunch. Popular vacation times for Hong Kong residents are the weeks of America's Christmas and Easter, as well as the Chinese New Year, when many establishments close for the entire week.

Business suits for men and women, in dark colors, are most appropriate. Bright colors with busy patterns, such as on a tie, are frowned upon, generally. Modest dress for women is acceptable but short skirts, plunging necklines and tight-fitting clothing are not. At a social gathering, avoid wearing blue or white since these shades are seen as mourning colors.

Casual conversation at the opening of a business meeting is permissible but avoid topics like the associate's wife and kids, financial status or plans for the weekend. These types of questions are viewed as far too personal. Understand, before the meeting, the usage of the associates' names. When seen in print, the first name is the family name. Therefore, you should address an individual by his title, or "Mr." and the first name you see in print. A woman will not take her husband's family name so avoid calling her "Mrs." and her husband's family name. Use titles like "Colonel" or "Dr." if appropriate. Make sure your pronunciation is exact.