Handshakes: Although Hong Kong is a global city, the traditional handshake can be less firm than Western expats might be used to. A gentle handshake with a slight bow of the head shows respect and is commonly acceptable.

Addressing Individuals: When addressing someone, it is polite to use titles followed by the surname unless you are invited to do otherwise. This is particularly important in business contexts where addressing someone directly by their first name too soon can be seen as a sign of disrespect.

Exchange of Business Cards: When receiving or giving a business card, always use both hands. Take a moment to look at the card before putting it away as a sign of respect for the person giving you their card.

Communication Style

Understanding the subtleties of communication in Hong Kong can help expats avoid misunderstandings and build strong relationships both personally and professionally.

Indirect Communication: Many Hong Kong residents tend to use an indirect communication style to avoid confrontation. It’s important to be attentive and read between the lines. If someone says, “We will see,” it may often mean “no”, so be sensitive to these subtleties.

Public Disagreements: Publicly disagreeing or correcting someone can cause embarrassment and loss of face. Try to handle any disagreements in private or through a mediator to maintain harmony and respect.

Saving Face: The concept of ‘face’ represents a person’s reputation and feelings of prestige. Avoid causing someone to ‘lose face’ by criticizing them in front of others. Instead, offer praise and avoid confrontation to help them ‘save face’.

Dining Etiquette

Dining plays a crucial role in Hong Kong’s social and business culture. Being aware of the local dining etiquette can enhance your dining experience and show your respect for local customs.

Seating Arrangement: Wait to be seated, as there is often a designated seating arrangement based on seniority and respect.

Eating Habits: When eating, try not to finish all the food on your plate as it implies the host did not provide enough food. Also, it’s polite to try every dish that is offered as a sign of respect and appreciation.

Chopstick Etiquette: Never stick chopsticks upright in a bowl, as this resembles incense sticks burning at a shrine, which is associated with death. Also, do not point chopsticks at others or use them to move bowls or plates.

Dress Code

Appropriate dress can vary significantly depending on the situation in Hong Kong, and understanding these nuances can be crucial for expats.

Business Attire: Business attire in Hong Kong is generally conservative. Men should wear suits and ties, and women should wear suits or dresses that are not too revealing.

Casual Dress: For non-business settings, casual dress is more accepted, especially given Hong Kong’s often hot and humid climate. However, it’s still important to avoid overly casual or revealing clothing in public places.

Gift Giving Customs

Gift giving is a common practice in Hong Kong and is laden with traditions that expats should be aware of to avoid cultural faux pas.

Gift Selection: Avoid giving clocks, handkerchiefs, and white flowers as they are associated with funerals and death. Also, avoid giving anything sharp, like knives or scissors, as they symbolize cutting ties.

Receiving Gifts: When receiving a gift, it is customary to refuse it once or twice before accepting it to show humility. Do not open gifts immediately upon receiving them unless urged by the giver, as it might seem greedy.

Reciprocation: If you receive a gift, it is polite to offer one in return at a later time to maintain balance and harmony in the relationship.

Public Behavior

Public behavior in Hong Kong leans towards the conservative, and expats should be mindful of their actions to blend in respectfully.

Queueing: Always stand in line and wait your turn for buses, trains, or even when buying something in shops. Jumping the queue is considered very rude and can even provoke confrontations.

Photography: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or private property. In some areas, photography might be restricted, and it’s important to adhere to these rules.

Smoking: Hong Kong has strict laws regarding smoking in public places, and these are rigorously enforced. Always look for designated smoking areas to avoid fines.

Conclusion

Moving to a new country can be a challenging experience, but understanding and respecting local customs can significantly ease the transition. For expats in Hong Kong, embracing the local do’s and don’ts not only shows respect for the culture but also aids in a smoother integration into daily life. Whether it’s through mastering the local dining etiquette, dressing appropriately, or understanding the subtleties of communication, every effort made by expats to respect Hong Kong’s traditions can enhance their experience and professional relationships in this dynamic city.