Shaking hands

handshaking is often used when meeting someone or bidding farewell. it is also very common when you first introduce yourself. In China, people often shake hands when saying hello to each other: “Nihao, Nihao!” the answer can be the same “Nihao, Nihao,” not necessarily “it’s a pleasure to meet you.”

A chinese handshake should be neither too light to make the other party feel ignored or belittled, nor should it be too tight to cause any discomfort. the handshake will usually last for around two seconds. in general, it is the senior party that will motion for a handshake first. In other words, the senior manager, the elder person or the host will offer their hand first to a junior member of staff, the younger person or the guest. it is also acceptable if both parties reach out their hands at the same time.

if two people have already been seated or are too far to shake hands, they can resort to other means to express their politeness, such as nodding, waving or bending the body while greeting each other with a friendly “Nihao.” • Do not cross shake hands or shake hands while sitting down. • Do not wear gloves when shaking hands. • Do not use two hands when shaking hands with someone you meet for the first time. • Chinese people do not hug each other when meeting for the first time.