How to use respectful body language with elders and officials in China
Beyond Words: The Significance of Body Language in China: How to use respectful body language with elders and officials in China
To use respectful body language with elders and officials in China, key points include:
- Greet elders and officials with a gentle nod or a slight bow as a sign of respect. Bowing is subtle and not as deep as Japanese but signals humility and honor.
- Use a gentle handshake in formal settings, ensuring it is not too firm or prolonged, and maintain polite, brief eye contact without staring.
- Lower your gaze slightly when interacting with elders or superiors, as direct and prolonged eye contact can be seen as disrespectful.
- Address elders and officials using their family name with honorifics like “Mr.” or “Ms.” to show respect.
- Avoid physical contact such as hugging or touching, which is generally unwelcome.
- When asking someone to come closer or summoning, do so with a downward palm gesture rather than pointing, which is considered rude.
- When presenting something like a business card, use both hands and present it respectfully, typically to the senior person first.
- Keep an upright and composed posture, and avoid overly expressive facial emotions in formal settings.
- Avoid pointing with an index finger; instead use an open palm to gesture toward people or things.
- In social or formal settings, allow elders and higher-ranked individuals to lead in greetings, seating, and eating.
These customs reflect deep-rooted Confucian values emphasizing hierarchy, respect, and harmony in Chinese culture. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12