Civility by Diana Olson:International gift giving etiquette

Because of increasing personal and business connections with foreign countries or various cultures in the United States, it is important to gain knowledge about their customs and culture. This knowledge will create a congenial and proper environment in which positive relations and commerce can flourish. Etiquette tips for gift giving in China and Japan follow.

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CHINA: The Chinese often give elaborate welcoming banquets for their guests. There is no business discussion during the event, and one must accept the invitation that later needs to be reciprocal. The importance of the banquet event is to open communication and develop friendships and trust. Small impersonal gifts are often exchanged during the final negotiations, and are not opened in front of others, unless the giver insists. Government policy states that personal business gifts are against the law. .

If invited to one’s home, a small wrapped gift of stamps, pictures, books, liquor, or a calendar with the year’s symbol is appreciated by the hosts. Certain colors and numbers should be avoided: black, dark colors and white indicate misfortune or death. Thirteen is bad luck; even numbers are positive. Only for weddings and the Chinese New Year is money given. Avoid giving a clock, as this symbolizes death. Luxury items and apples are not acceptable. Generally, flowers may be seen around a home in vases, but not presented as a gift. They are for funerals. Red means Happiness or Good Luck.

A good gift selection is important because Chinese take pleasure in giving helpful and useful gifts.

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JAPAN: Japan is a generous gift-giving country with much emphasis on the formal exchange of gifts. These gifts are artistically wrapped with no ribbon, accepted graciously with both hands and a slight bow. When visiting a Japanese home, it is a custom to bring a gift for your host. Crystal, wine and liquor are appreciated gifts. In giving gifts avoid flowers, or anything with the number four or nine as these numbers signify death.

In Japan, ningen kankei (human relations) is a complex sociological structure that refers to the development of a cooperative and close relationship of trust and mutual understanding. At the onset, business is secondary. Socializing and business entertaining is crucial for any business transactions. Giri is the repayment of gift giving exchanges in equal value. Patience, commitment and understanding of these two Japanese principles of are essential to building successful relationships in Japan.

Knowledge of what to do regarding the correct giving and receiving of gifts has advantages in building successful business and social relationships. Engagement in global activities and routine interactions with different cultures and backgrounds create positive exchanges of information and ideas. Prior to interaction with various cultures, research should be done in order to have the knowledge as to how to build successful relationships.

Next week I will address international protocol, business and social etiquette.

DIANA OLSON, MA, AICI, CIP is a certified etiquette and image consultant. For more information about etiquette, visit www.dianaolson.com.