Conversation Starters:

After you have sat down with new Chinese friends or colleagues… what to talk about? Well, aside from obvious pleasantries such as how you find China, what you like about China (avoid dislikes if any) and how delicious the food is, try chatting about your family and if you can, show them a photo or two. They’ll be most intrigued by your immediate and extended family, as the Chinese are very family-orientated. In many countries talking about sport is the ultimate icebreaker but inChinathis isn’t too successful (most Chinese are unhappy with their national football team for instance). Further hot topics include talking about your hometown, your pastimes or your national cuisine. A further point you may be quizzed about, regards howChina, or its people, are perceived in your country… try to focus on positives only! They also love the use of hand gestures as a comical and colourful way to illustrate your meaning. If you have any money or coinage from your country, or a newspaper, you should show it to them. If you know someone well, as a lead-in to a conversation or a text message pleasantry, they could ask you “Have you eaten?” or “Where are you?” – these are usually meant as pleasantries only and shouldn’t necessarily be taken as an offer to dine out or spend the evening together. Generally, the Chinese are very easy to talk to. They are curious and fascinated about other cultures and always willing to engage in friendly and courteous conversation whether old or new friends.