Culture of China

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Culture of China
Completed by student:
Alexey Malyshev

2.

Working hours
People usually start work at 8 or 9 in the morning and finish
at 5 or 6 in the evening. However, many employees work
overtime or even on weekends due to the work culture of
working long hours. One such example is the famous 996
working hours system.
The 996 working hour system - is a work schedule practiced
by some companies in the People's Republic of China. It
derives its name from its requirement that employees work
from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm, 6 days per week. A number of
Mainland Chinese internet companies have adopted this
system as their official work schedule. Critics argue that the
996 working hour system is a violation of Chinese Labour
Law and have called it "modern slavery".
Also important in business is the concept of "guanxi"
(relationship), which means building personal connections
with clients and colleagues.
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Holidays
Employees are entitled to 11 public holidays a year, including the
Chinese New Year, Labor Day, and National Day. However, many
businesses only close for the Chinese New Year holiday, which lasts
for a week or more.
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Meals and entertaining
Meals are an important part of business culture in China. Banquets and business
dinners are common and are used to build relationships and discuss business
matters.
It is good to know the following points:
• The meal ends abruptly, by 9 p.m. at the latest. As soon as the host stands up the meal is
over.
• As a group, you eat in a private guestroom at a round table. The food is served on
platters and is placed on a turntable in the middle of the main table. All help themselves
from that.
• All food – even the peanuts served at the start – is eaten with chopsticks. At your wish,
you will be given cutlery but not every restaurant can help you in that regard.
• The idea of community is the goal of the meal; do not eat and drink just for yourself, but
pay attention to your neighbours. Pour for them, circulate the food further, and propose
toasts.
• While noises made while eating, such as slurping and smacking your lips, are quite
common, blowing your nose is taboo.
• Say thank you for the good food and the hospitality – and make a return invitation!
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Punctuality
Punctuality is highly valued in Chinese business culture. Arriving on
time for meetings is expected and arriving early is considered a sign
of respect. Being late without a valid reason can damage one's
reputation and relationship with clients or colleagues.
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Boundaries – limits – between work and private life
In China, there is often a blurred line between work and private life. It
is not uncommon for colleagues to socialize outside of work hours,
such as attending karaoke sessions or playing sports together.
However, it is important to maintain a professional demeanor and
avoid discussing sensitive topics, such as politics or religion.
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Culture of China
Completed by student:
Alexey Malyshev