47 Comments Add your own

• 1. Simeon Trieu  |  April 7th, 2008 at 4:03 pm

  Here are several tips for buying gifts for China:

  Overview
  - Gift giving is what you would expect, but with a few cultural exceptions (listed below)
  - This is not an exhaustive list, and like always, you should always use your good judgment.
  - If you want to know more, feel free to ask me or other Chinese/Chinese-Americans. We probably know as much as you about gift giving in general, but we also understand the culture of China to some degree.

  Culture Notes
  - Chinese assume you will be courteous and will not likely point out your cultural blunders.
  - As Prof. Carr has noted, your gift should be representative of the culture you come from. While America is an amalgamation of many different cultures, there must be something that means something special to you.
  - The gift is not meant to merely be a custom. It isn’t some cultural nuance that you just wave your hand at. The gift is, in Chinese culture, just a representation of the relationship you have with the receiver of the gift.
  - Your delivery of the gift is just as important, if not more important, than the gift itself. They get tons of gifts every year, but a grateful expression is worth more than expensive gifts.
  - Do not expensive and cheap gifts together to those of in a group of the same importance.

  Choosing a gift
  - Don’t get them gifts that they can buy themselves at the local Walmart.
  - Gifts do not have to be expensive, nor do they have to be large. Again, the gift is a representation of the relationship. A gift for your boss tends to be a little more over the top than a gift to your peers. A gift to your family or friend tends to be more endearing than a gift to someone you just met.

  Examples
  - If you are at a complete loss as to what to get, some examples of gifts given include but are not limited to perfume, picture books, wine and spirits, postcards, collections (of coins, of stamps, etc.), printed group pictures, customized cards, tour literature, art from the US, treat them to dinner, cosmetics, unique candies, and you can use your imagination for the rest. They are humans like us, intrigued by other cultures different from their own.

  Cautionary Notes
  - Gifts, like in the US, can be looked at as bribery or kickbacks. Since we are not doing formal business transactions here, it might be good to note that very expensive gifts should be used with caution.
  - Always give better gifts to those with higher seniority or power, and give it to them first.

  Wrapping Gifts
  - Do not wrap a gift before going to China, since they will likely be unwrapped by customs.
  - Red is a good choice of wrapping paper color since it symbolizes good fortune in Asian cultures.
  - Do not give gifts covered with “cute” wrapping paper to men (but okay for women) Although it may be different, it’s awkward, and they will not tell you if they are offended since they are Chinese.

• 2. Woon Lam "Justine" Wong  |  June 13th, 2008 at 3:52 pm

  When I asked my father and some Chinese business friends, they simply recommended us to bring over some “Cal Poly” products. It is for sure “made in USA”, which also carries the value of our school. Morover, it shows that we went to that particular company/factory so that they can “show off” the product.
  When I went back to Hong Kong, I buy Cal Poly T-shirts and caps for some friends and they like it. I think it is a very easy way to buy a last minute gifts if you haven’t do so.

• 3. Andrea Muntzel  |  December 16th, 2008 at 10:11 am

  I like the Cal Poly products idea. I’ve given Cal Poly honey and cheese as gifts to family and friends from other areas and they love it. I was wondering if food, though, is a good gift for China. Honey isn’t perishable like cheese but do the Chinese and Indians use honey? I can see how picture or coffee-table books would be excellent gifts but we seem to visit several of the same places and I wouldn’t want to give something that lacks the originality and novelty we are attempting to achieve by giving these gifts in the first place. I’ll keep my eye out for good deals or interesting ideas for the trip while I shop for Christmas.

  One thing that was briefly mentioned is the attitude while giving gifts. I think it’s important to remember how kind and generous these companies are being as they welcome us into their buildings with the benevolent and welcoming spirit that is characteristic of their cultures and somewhat lacking on our own. Genuinely having an appreciation for their kindness will surely show through as we give them our gifts; I think gratitude is the best gift to receive anyway.

• 4. Chris Carr  |  December 16th, 2008 at 11:36 am

  The Chinese are not yet big dairy consumers, e.g., cheese.

  I don’t know about honey.

  Bringing food can be risky, for the above reasons, also often does not travel well, can melt in the heat, etc.

  Chocolates would normally work, but heat and humidity will melt them. So I would recommend staying away from that option.

  Would recommend that you appoint a person or two to talk to Xiao Fei on such a topic and report back to the others, to get her input and ideas, start to build your guanxi, etc.

• 5. Morgan O'Hara  |  December 19th, 2008 at 2:05 pm

  I agree wholeheartedly with Andrea – “we should genuinely have an appreciation for their kindness … gratitude is the best gift to receive.” Along those lines, it’s always a good idea to express appreciation to people who deserve it. A good way to do that is with follow up cards – Raquel is the master at this, and I know her thoughtfulness will serve her well. A universal truth: people like it when you acknowledge them, and express appreciation for things they’ve done for you. In turn, they’ll be more likely to help you out. Appreciation isn’t just about giving – it’s reciprocal.

  Also, one quick note on humility. In my opinion, and I’ve lived abroad a bunch, humility is generally your best friend. People are always sniffing you out when you’re a foreigner. Some sincere humility will make you endearing to them in little time.

• 6. Jenna Healy  |  January 7th, 2009 at 8:42 am

  Although buying particular gifts and wrapping in particular colors may seem troublesome, I love the depth and symbolism of these two cultures. My main criticism of the central coast is our lack of diversity. It could be argued that we have our own culture… surfing-liberal-students or something of the like, but when all is said and done, we are mostly white with washed out culture.

  More than the color of our skin, Americans lack ritual. What we have in the U.S. are “Hallmark holidays” or those designed to keep our materialistic sides purchasing. How amazing was this holiday season of consumption decreased by a half? Think of all the saved trees just on wrapping paper alone.

  Maybe I’m blind to our rituals because I have lived with them always… but I can’t think of an offensive color to wrap a gift in America… I can’t think of many ways to insult an American besides the middle finger and curse words… and even that doesn’t offend all of us.

  In cultures where color, presentation and ritual are so important, it commands respect. We are not only respecting the person, but their ancestry. If there are guidelines, anyone reasonable will try to follow. Maybe the United States should create some guidelines and rituals or does that defeat the purpose?

  In truth, it’s the thought that counts. Although the formulas for gift giving in China, India and the United States are all drastically different, we all can appreciate the gesture.

• 7. Oscar Merlin  |  January 9th, 2009 at 12:32 pm

  The big question that I had on this topic is if its appropriate to give a gift that’s not mainstream. And what I mean by that is that if we are going to give cheese or honey like Andrea was saying if its OK if its from Canada or Mexico? Or if we are expected to give something to them that’s specifically from the Central Coast? Does it have to be USA made and produced? or can it be something that reminds them that yeah we come from the US but the US is composed of so many different people, and they have one or two countries as neighbors.

• 8. Chris Carr  |  January 9th, 2009 at 1:57 pm

  The most important thing is that it be a part of you and who you are. That can take on many facets. So I guess my question back to you would be, is Canadian cheese or honey more a reflection of you or is California cheese or honey? What/where is the connect …?

• 9. Patrick Johansing  |  January 22nd, 2009 at 5:43 pm

  As Whitaker said–ring the doorbell with your elbows. I’m learning more and more the importance of gifting, especially in business. Gifting takes on many roles. It says we are thankful for your time, it says we’ve been giving you special thought, and it says you are important. It even gives the recipient a physical reminder of us. A gift is a powerful gesture.

• 10. Chris Carr  |  January 27th, 2009 at 10:46 am

  Good question.

  I think gift bags are fine. They key is to make them look pretty and signal you put thought into it.

  In past years, we had a few instances where people pulled out their unwrapped, wrinkled from suitcase packing Cal Poly t-shirts and handed those over as unwrapped gifts. I thought it looked bad, in that the presentation was not so good.

  They key to remember is that in much of Asia, presentation/formality on this type of thing is a big, big deal.

  Taking the time to get this right is a sign that you respect them and the time they have taken to spend with you. In my view, a nice looking/presented gift bag is sufficient in this regard.

• 11. Raquel Rusing  |  February 4th, 2009 at 5:48 pm

  If anyone doesn’t already know, I’m the Martha Stewart of the MBA program. I like gift wrapping so much that I often spend more money on the presentation of the gift than the gift itself. And that’s because I believe very highly in the way you present yourself, and even a gift reflects that. As an example to my obsession, I usually don’t even buy wrapping paper… I buy white wrapping paper and then paint with watercolors on it. I’ll even admit to making my own gift bags. Yeah, I kind of love it.

  But this is where I get worried. I’m not supposed to over do the presentation. Hmm. Where is the line? I needed more answers so I did more research. I didn’t find much that differed from what was already stated in this blog. However, I found a couple details that were referenced in a few sources. One source was from a company called Allie Intrade, Inc. that did a presentation for its employees to explain Chinese Etiquette in Corporate Gift Giving.

  Here were the interesting points I found:

  1. Do not give clocks, white flowers or reading books as gifts. These can represent funerals, extramarital affairs, loss or failure.
  2. Colors and numbers play an important role. Lucky numbers are 3, 6 and 9 to mean birth, wealth and longevity. (Nerdy math sidenote… in general are multiples of 3 lucky? I’ll probably know the answer to this after reading back through my History of Number Theory book)
  3. Unlucky things are black, white, blue and the number 4, which are associated with death or funerals.
  4. Although wrapping with red paper is appropriate, writing in red ink is symbolic of severing a relationship.

  Again, most of the other information I found was already stated, but these extra comments were new. However, I cannot determine their truth, so take them as you will. Where is Xiao Fei when you need her?!

• 12. Xiaofei Song  |  February 21st, 2009 at 10:44 pm

  I think t-shirt or key chain are very good gifts. I like to bring food, if you don’t care about the weight, artichoke heart is very good choice. Honey is common in China, find something they don’t have and just from California.

  Another thing I would like to bring is gum, find some wired flavor like Big Red, my friends all burn their month by chewing tons of them!

• 13. Chris Carr  |  March 2nd, 2009 at 9:29 pm

  Questions I would ask you if you were on my Donald Trump-type reality, business school-ish TV show where you worked on this problem/challenge:

  Will the Chinese know (care) who Dr. Seuss is? (Seems to me that “green eggs and ham” is a Western-centric construct and concept.)

  Does the person you are giving a gift to have a child? What if they don’t? How can one learn/confirm this in advance (tough to do)?

  If they do, Mickey Mouse, maybe and I think you have a shot. Dr. Seuss … seems to me to be a stretch and risky.

  Will they like or read Western poetry (do you like and read Chinese poetry)? If they like it, can you make it easy for them to read and enjoy (poetry is often very personal) by giving said person a Western poetry book that has been translated into Mandarin (and can you find said book in “global” SLO town to purchase)?

  You might build your relationship/guanxi with them over time and, once you get to know said person better, then, such a specifically tailored and personalized gift may be the way to go.

  My (candid) two cents.

• 14. Chris Carr  |  March 13th, 2009 at 7:54 pm

  Good question by Matt.

  Coffee has arrived in China and Starbucks now seem to be everywhere.

  But, it is still heavily a tea drinking society, so on the coffee front I would say wait a decade and then try that as a gift.

• 15. Amanda Podesta  |  January 2nd, 2011 at 7:23 pm

  I think that this is a lovely custom. I wonder how widespread such a formalized practice of gift giving not only in China but in other Asian countries… I know that the Japanese also have this custom.
  In America, this level of thoughtfulness and extra effort is almost old-fashioned. When there’s such an abundance of “things” will the special appreciation of presents be something that is lost in China?
  Addendum: How would the Chinese receive thank you letters? Are they typically written and appreciated?

• 16. Chris Carr  |  January 4th, 2011 at 9:55 am

  @ Amanda,

  Good question.

  My view is that handwritten notes (or typed letters on nice letterhead if you are like me and your handwriting is pretty hard to read), are always more thoughtful and appreciated by the recipient than an email, particularly among older people. This includes in China.

  However, the challenge in emerging markets like China is … if you send such a thank you regular post, will it arrive? Sometimes not, and I have sometimes had to resend thank you notes/letters to China after I checked in and learned they were not received by regular mail. In extreme cases, where UPS or DHL will reach, I have sent it by such carriers, but it does add expense.

  My main advice …. whatever you send, even if my email, personalize it, make it as special as you can, and take the time to write something relevant, warm and sincere.

  Oh, and make the return offer to help them in your thank you. This is part of building Guanxi. Toss out the American model were “it’s all about us: and we forgot to extend the offer of help to the other side.

• 17. Dan N  |  January 6th, 2011 at 8:24 am

  Professor,
  After reading Shirk and watching Joe Wong, I’m wondering how we can use gift giving to address the perceived arrogance of Americans in the eyes of Chinese. I’m curious, how effective would a gift with a component of well thought out self-mockery be in demonstrating humility and good will to our counterparts? And more important, is self-deprecation in this form appropriate and translatable in China?

  For example, can we find coffee-table books, images, t-shirts, etc. that poke fun at the curious habits/characteristics that make Americans odd in the eyes of the rest of the world? Something to do with our obesity, our two-party system, cosmetic surgery, our willingness to pay $3 for a cup of coffee, etc…

  We ought to research the ways that humility, reverence, and respect are traditionally communicated in China and look for ways to incorporate them into our gifts. I see this as a great opportunity to not only show our appreciation for hosting us, but also to fulfill our individual responsibilities as diplomats. As Shirk recommends, we should seek to convey our acceptance of their rise and our willingness to relinquish our positions of dominance and perceived superiority.

  Again, the question is how is self-deprecation received in China? I don’t know the answer to this. Given how many other things are lost in translation (writing with red ink, incorporating symbolic numbers into gifts, etc), self-mockery might be a slipper slope.

  Any thoughts on the pro’s and con’s of this strategy? Anyone have any ideas of self-mocking gifts?

• 18. Chris Carr  |  January 7th, 2011 at 4:41 pm

  @ Dan,

  Good question.

  It is my experience that humor or self-deprecation in another culture, and in China, in the circumstance you posit is risky until you build the relationship and get to know the person better.

  Joe Wong the comedian’s gig was also different than our firm visits. He is a comedian and was invited to the dinner in that role and that was the expectation of him — to be funny, sarcastic, etc.

  My advice:

  Keep it simple, formal, professional and above all be sincere and heartfelt. I don’t see how you can go wrong if you do this.

  Prof. Carr

• 19. David Hart  |  January 9th, 2011 at 10:06 pm

  I remember learning about the Chinese custom of giving and receiving gifts when I was young. A friend from China stayed at our house. My dad told us beforehand that he would likely bring us gifts, and that we also would give him gifts.

  When he arrived, sure enough he brought gifts for my family. As young kids, we were excited. It seemed like Christmas! I remember the friendly exchange in our living room as we shared gifts with each other. He stayed with us for several days–teaching us a little about Chinese culture. He even showed us how to hold a ping pong paddle Chinese style. Although I was never able to master that particular grip, I have memories of him teaching us how to spin a ping pong ball and showing us various strategies. We enjoyed having him stay with our family and learned a little about the Chinese practice of gift giving.

  I appreciate the ideas mentioned in this post. This will give me some sort of direction in helping to decide on what gifts to bring.

• 20. Katie Moeller  |  January 10th, 2011 at 3:08 pm

  I am glad I had the opportunity to read this blog and article before buying a gift. I did not even think about the importance of wrapping the gift and the message that it conveys. I think I would have just shown up and handed over an unwrapped gift. Big mistake.

  When I studied abroad in London, I spent three days with a host family. We were required to give a gift as well. I bought a picture book of Minnesota (my hometown). It was appreciated and hopefully they enjoyed it. After reading this article, it sounds like a picture book is a popular gift as well. I am looking forward to seeing what the groups give the companies for gifts.

• 21. Chris Bruns  |  January 10th, 2011 at 11:24 pm

  Reading the link to the LA Times article, What Gift To Bring to a Nation That Makes Everything?, made me laugh. This is because the situation described in China, of second-hand clothes as gifts in the 1980’s, is how my family sends gifts to the Philippines now.

  I liked the quote that mentioned American made foods such as “dried cranberries or blueberries, pistachios or macadamia nuts, chewing gum and big jars of strawberry jam and honey.” There are so many food-stuffs that travel well and are very “Californian,” such as a variety of trail mixes, health bars, flavored honey-sticks, flavored beef jerky (Santa Maria style), etc. Another idea for gifts are iconic American made products such as US made Carhartt, Klein and Snap-on tools, Benchmade, Buck, and others. I know these companies make other items that are suited well for professional gifts outside of their iconic American products. I think that finding and personalizing a gift to the US, and especially California, is a great idea and should be a fun challenge to for our groups. What I hadn’t realized was the importance of wrapping the gift, the quality of the wrapping, and the color of the paper. It is good that these points were mentioned as to not make a mistake on what would seem to be a simple task.

• 22. Cassie Bettencourt  |  January 22nd, 2011 at 5:32 pm

  I have never been much of a gift giver and gift wrapping is not my forte (I will definitely need need to enlist the help of a group member for that!). I have always felt that the quality of time spent with someone and the expression of sincere gratitude for their time and having them in your life should be sufficient. However, after reading this post and the article from the LA Times, I can definitely appreciate this custom in regards to the Chinese and doing business in China. I found the evolution of appropriate gifts to give in China described in the article really interesting. As their culture and country has changed and developed, logically so have gift expectations. I thought that the idea of a health-related gift made a lot of sense as their society has become more health-conscious. One thought that crossed my mind while reading was whether or not it would be slightly off-putting to the Chinese to bring American versions of things they also make in China. Couldn’t that be considered arrogant in “ours are better” sort of way? I do believe, though, that making sure the gifts are sincere and personalized will minimize any awkward or tacky gift encounters. People from all countries and cultures will appreciate true sincerity and a nice and thoughtful presentation. I am looking forward to see what our groups come up with in our first go with this custom.

• 23. Jessica Shayler  |  January 29th, 2011 at 7:55 pm

  My husband accompanied his father (a HS physics teacher) on a trip to Russia a few years ago. Gift giving is also expected in Russia and I was able to help shop for gifts in San Francisco. It seems the expected quality of the gift was below our goal for the China gifts. I suspect this is at least partly due to us visiting business professionals versus my husband visiting host families. We bought things like SF shot glasses, lanyards, and T-shirts, stuffed toys (for the kids), as well as a few nicer items. Fast forward a year or two where my husband and I happened to be visiting his folks during the Russian’s stay with them. I was surprised they had brought extra gifts just in case and were able to present us with Russian crafts and chocolates even though we were not expected. I was touched. It provided a personal connection that was not there before.

  I feel part of the beauty in gift-giving is the opportunity to validate someone else’s existence. I well thought-out personalized gift not only says “you matter,” but “you matter to me.” I love gift reconnaissance! I’m looking forward to using all of this good information (no wine or coffee, red paper, etc) with my group to select a gift to show the leaders at our assigned business that they matter to us.

• 24. Brady Haug  |  February 1st, 2011 at 7:12 pm

  I would imagine that personalizing a gift to give in China, is even more important than it is in the US. Chinese culture revolves around respect and particularly for that of your elders. You can readily tell when someone has put forth the effort to find a gift. It is important to reflect your care for the other person, by not selecting just a generic gift. In receiving a gift, whether it is exactly what you want or not, I makes a world of difference to know that the person put forth care and effort to choose the gift. I think it is extremely important to express to these companies our gratitude for their time. These companies are not benefiting from our visits in any way and are graciously giving us their time. Certainly showing up with a box of chocolates would not show our sincerity and care for their meeting with us. I hadn’t even thought of cultural issues that could relate to wrapping. It is important for us to dissect our gifts from different sides to ensure we aren’t offending anyone. It addition, the article referenced how China is no longer a needy country. If we were give items we thought people were in need of, we would appear pompous. Showing up with a tacky or thoughtless gift will not give us the warm welcome we are all hoping for. Lastly, as Dr. Carr has mentioned, we are not just Cal Poly MBA students, but we are representing all of Cal Poly and even the US.

• 25. Tim Easton  |  February 1st, 2011 at 7:39 pm

  Growing up I have come to appreciate the practice of gift giving in Asian culture. Both of my parents are professors and they have been receiving gifts from Asian students for years. First off, getting a professor a Christmas gift is something that has never crossed my mind. Second, I have seen the amazing gift wrapping that these presents come in and have been blown away multiple times. I have also seen my parents struggle to pick out a gift for their students that they have remained in contact with and have formed friendships with. I can’t remember specific examples of what they have gotten but it has always been an American or Californian thing. I have never been much of a gift giver and my wrapping skills are subpar, as I normally just throw it into a bag. At least there is some time to practice wrapping or someone else on my team can take that task. It will be interesting to see the different gifts that each group picks out.

• 26. Sarah Weinzapfel  |  February 10th, 2011 at 5:02 pm

  I think putting thought into a gift and presenting it well is common sense. If someone gave me a gift that was wrinkled or had ripped wrapping paper, I would be a little offended; not enough to say anything, but I would wonder why they couldn’t have put a little more time in to it. The color is not so common sense to everyone, but in one of my undergrad design classes we talked about color and what it might mean in other cultures. For example, white in Asian cultures means death and mourning and probably isn’t a color you would want to paint a hospital over there. Red in America is not considered a comfortable color and represents emergency or strong feelings, but something completely different in China. One thing that I found far from common sense was the type of gifts suggested in the article. Things like dried fruit and nuts, lotions, lip balm, and especially multivitamins are gifts I would have never thought were things they valued. I think I’m a good candidate for wrapping the present, but my group will have to help me out on ideas for the present itself.

• 27. Matt Streiter  |  February 10th, 2011 at 5:06 pm

  Gift giving is not my strong suit and hopefully someone in my group has a better handle on situations like these than I do. It was definitely interesting to hear what the Chinese enjoyed receiving from Americans: nuts, dried fruit, lotions! Those weren’t exactly my ideas of a personalized gift.The gesture of giving the gift will be a sign of respect for their culture and appreciation we have as a class towards them. We can view this as a good comparison of customs in China with the U.S.. If you are going to give a gift it is definitely important to put thought into it and present it in a way that shows like you care. As trivial as gift wrapping may seem to some, it does show effort and gratitude towards the person receiving the item.

  The gift will help build rapport and demonstrate interest in maintaining a positive relationship with them beyond this encounter. More so, it will also leave a positive impression on the population that we are representing as visitors. For the sake of our class, SLO, Central California, and the rest of America, we better be on our “A” game.

• 28. Kristine Spencer  |  February 11th, 2011 at 5:16 pm

  I think it is great and polite to give gifts to the Chinese companies that are putting the time and effort into showing us their company and way of life. Gift giving is also popular in other cultures, but probably not as important as in China. When my mom’s Dutch family comes to visit, they usually bring black licorice or Dutch cookies. I don’t really consider myself a great gift giver, but I really appreciate when people give the perfect, most thoughtful gift. I am pretty good at wrapping presents though, my mom taught me well. I think it might be kind of difficult to find something not made in China, but with some creativity I think the groups will come up with excellent gifts. The article really explained the concept behind the gift giving and how it has evolved over the years. I was not expecting American-made nutritional supplements to be such a popular gift in China, but the idea behind it (concern for health, food risks in China, superior American made product) is what matters. I thought it was kind of sad that gift giving was becoming so overwhelming for overseas Chinese that they are beginning to forgo giving gifts. The strict gift criteria seems to be getting too difficult for many. Maybe the tradition will evolve to be more like in America, where flowers, wine, or homemade baked goods are given as a gift to show appreciation. Just like it is difficult to give gifts to the person who has everything, it is obviously equally difficult to bring gifts to the country that makes everything.

• 29. Jessie Wilkie  |  February 12th, 2011 at 2:05 pm

  I liked reading this blog. I don’t know why–perhaps because it went quickly or because it reminded me of picture books I’ve seen in places I’ve been then reminded me of the trips or because it hit me with something that I hadn’t even thought of…the color of the wrapping paper. I had not really given much thought into the gift part of the China trip yet, and then when I read about how the color of the paper even matters this surprised me! It’s fascinating how the culture is so defined in China that even the color of the wrapping paper matters.

  I don’t think that I will be a proponent of giving a picture book. Although, I did like reading about it. It reminded me of seeing pictures books at places like Nepenthe in Big Sur and thinking–thats funny that I’m here. Or even seeing picture books of places that I hadn’t been and dreaming about them (this is probably what most of the Chinese experience when they receive the picture books). Picture books sort of ignite a wanderlust in people and more of a realistic vision of what is out there.

  I thought the LA times article was interesting. This line caught my eye,”…Dube knew just what to get his in-laws. He bought a Japanese color TV…” I thought this was interesting because of the huge supposed rivalry between Japan and China (perhaps, this was a mellow time or maybe it’s not as bad as people make it out to be?) I like the idea of the whole healthy gifts (healthy foods, vitamins, nice lotion, etc.) I am thinking it would be nice to make a healthy gift package. Finally, I thought it was funny that the guy in the LA times article just ended up giving up on gift giving. Sounds like most people in the US too… : )

• 30. Kyle R.  |  February 13th, 2011 at 4:07 pm

  I appreciate and respect the fact that it is a given to bring a gift when meeting with people in China. I’ve heard about the importance of bringing a housewarming gift when visiting someone’s house for the first time. So, the same should apply to visiting specific people in their “home” country. I admire the fact that many Asian cultures have this custom because I do agree with previous blogs that this is an “old-fashioned” tradition here in America. People seem so caught up in gift-cards that real thought is not put into the process or the importance of actual gift giving. Whenever I receive a gift, it means so much more when you can tell that the giver has put time into choosing what they think the right gift is. When I give gifts to family and friends, I really don’t focus on the cost of each gift. I try and search for a gift that will really be useful and unique. I plan on using this same logic when purchasing a gift for our selected firm in China.

• 31. Jason Jay Sharma  |  February 13th, 2011 at 11:17 pm

  When I was an undergrad at Poly, I took a Culture of Japan course as a sophomore and absolutely loved it. The course usually rotates the nation and culture it focuses on, and so I wish I had taken it when it was the Culture of China because it would have been very helpful now (then again, my girlfriend would disagree as she is Japanese–no one tell Marisa). Regardless, many similarities are evident between Asian nations, and this is true of Japan and China. Like the Japanese, bringing gifts and the presentation of those gifts are very important in China. Regardless of it being a cultural necessity, bringing gifts is a nice way of showing appreciation to our hosts who gladly allowed us to visit their businesses or guides willing to show us around.

  The Los Angeles Times article hit a personal note with me. Visiting family in Fiji when I was much younger, I remember my parents gathering all of mine and my brother’s old clothes and boxing it up to take as hand-me-downs to my relatives. In fact, taking 8 cardboard boxes on trips wasn’t too shocking back then either. Most of them were usually filled with a variety of candy, chocolates, toys (old and new), dry foods (like almonds), even items like name brand shampoo or soap (many brands were considered luxury), and of course the clothes I mentioned earlier. However, the last time I went to Fiji a few years back, you dare not take anything used. It might be a positive sign that all countries are making their developments and can afford to have “nice” things.

  I noticed Tim mentioned that his parents receive gifts as professors, and I while I never did that when I got older, while I was in elementary school, my parents always would make me take gifts for my teachers. Maybe it’s not just an Asian cultural practice, but a British one as well? Either way, I haven’t thought of what I’d like to take for the company my team will be assigned to, but I want to make sure it’s something that will leave a lasting impression from us. Plus, good thing I like wrapping gifts!

• 32. Will Moeller  |  February 17th, 2011 at 12:32 pm

  This blog, rightfully so, has some well-thought-out postings. At the heart of most of them (especially from alumni) is the issue of respect. As for the specific act of respect - the gift giving - I can appreciate the custom. I was raised on giving homemade gifts to my parents - paintings, drawings, house chores, etc. Needless to say, they taught me that to be a great gift, it has to be centered around the other person.

  Now this isn’t to say that I’ve always succeeded in gift-giving…ask Katie about her 26th birthday. Nonetheless, I can get into the spirit of this.

  Many midwesterner ideas have crossed my mind - ginseng root from Wisconsin, a bushel of corn, a pound of bacon, and a gallon of milk…clearly none are winners. It’s safe to say that I’d like to bring something midwestern, but I’m not sure what that is yet.

  However, it is interesting to me that by honoring American culture and Chinese culture, we give them gifts that stereotype our unique culture. Perhaps this is my ethnocentrism coming out, but if the gift-giving game is construed that way, it doesn’t seem so fun anymore…food for thought…

  Nonetheless, I’m up to the challenge. I am glad that we’re making this personal by meeting with business and not simply doing a fly-by tour. I’m looking forward to the gift-giving exercise. If all goes well in my professional career, hopefully it won’t be my last time bearing gifts.

• 33. Randy Camat  |  February 18th, 2011 at 11:38 am

  I understand the importance of giving gifts especially when meeting people the first time and they’re doing us a big favor. I was surprised that the picture book seems a popular item as a gift. I had Cal Poly shirts, wine, chocolates, honey, and other Cal Poly products in mind as good gifts, but after reading this blog, I would have to rethink and brainstorm with my group on what are meaningful gifts to give. I appreciate the information and tips on wrapping and especially the color of the gift wrap. I never really put much thought in to this process and assumed to give a gift that was unwrapped so they could see what they were getting. Additionally, I appreciate Simeon’s input on this matter. Overall, it was very helpful and saved us from potentially making ourselves and Cal Poly look bad or not as good as we planned to be.

• 34. Ashley Ogden  |  February 19th, 2011 at 6:40 pm

  I am excited about picking out, wrapping and presenting a gift to the firm that we are assigned. I think that giving gifts is a great way to build good relations with people and businesses. However, it is important to know the differences between American and Chinese gift giving traditions and faux-pas. To the Chinese symbolism is very important so it is important that we understand the message we are giving by the way we wrap, present and pick the gifts we do. Colors, numbers, origin, etc are all details that will portray symbolism to the receiver of the gift. Although gift giving in China is an art and a challenge I am excited and ready for the challenge.

• 35. Anthony Kallioinen  |  February 25th, 2011 at 3:46 pm

  I think it is great that we are bringing gifts to the companies we are visiting. It is something that will hopefully set us apart as a business school that has done their research on local customs. I really enjoyed the article because the title is a thought that I had the first time I heard that we would be bringing gifts – what do you get the nation that makes everything? I understand now that ‘it’s not so much what the gift is but where it comes from that matters’ (brings to mind the old saying, ‘it’s the thought that counts’). It seems that anything made in America will do. I feel like it would be a bit tacky to give a Chinese factory host chap stick or gum, but if this is what is deemed worthy then of course I will respond in kind.

  I don’t really like how the article finished however. I feel that there is a lot of anxiety involved with choosing the right gift to give. It is like getting Christmas gifts for your family, but this time there is a stronger risk of offending the receiving party and also that you may not already have a personal connection with them.

  I think that we live in a unique and globally desirable area and we should play this up in our gift-giving, just as Carr suggests. I will have to get together with my group and brainstorm some good gift ideas. We are representatives of Cal Poly and we will give a good gift!

• 36. j hurley  |  February 26th, 2011 at 2:51 pm

  This is definitely a situation where the saying “it is the thought that counts” really applies. It will be a challenging experience to pick out a gift that represents myself as well as Cal Poly to provide the receiver in China.
  Gift giving is still practiced in many locations around the world, I wonder what made traditions change here in the U.S.?

• 37. Tyler Sereno  |  February 26th, 2011 at 6:37 pm

  I find it interesting that the gift-giving aspect of the Chinese culture has remained important to China throughout its history. Before reading the LA Times article and this blog post, I would have no idea what to buy as a gift. It is more important that the gift relates to your personal life. For example, the picture books of California, etc. It is going to be interesting looking for a gift while keeping his in mind. Most of the acceptable gifts listed in the LA Times do not seem to be items that would work as a gift in a professional setting. I do not think chewing gum or a jar of honey would be a very successful gift. However, I do want to make a good impression, so finding the right gift will be an experience of its own.

• 38. Tara Millard  |  March 1st, 2011 at 9:06 pm

  I am glad that this is a required post. Our gift-giving customs are fairly lazy at the least. Generally gifts are not given, and if they are, they are something extremely generic like a gift card in order to avoid a personal tone. The way gifts are given in China is lovely. I feel as though a well thought out gift that in some way reflects the giver highlights the purpose of giving a gift in the first place.

  I have noticed that some of my group members aren’t as excited as I am about choosing and wrapping a gift, so I am excited to take charge on this matter.

  One thing that this blog has highlighted is the necessity to avoid anything made in China. This idea would have never crossed my mind as I rarely look at where a gift I receive was manufactured. This aspect of Chinese culture is unique, and will no doubt make picking a gift more limited.

  Professor Carr, now that you have mentioned the picture book, I cannot seem to come up with any unique ideas. Are there any other resources we might use to find a delightful and appropriate gift? Also, you mentioned you have given winery picture books, so we should avoid that. Should we run other ideas past you to ensure that we don’t repeat a gift that a previous class of yours has given? I realize these are nitpicky questions, but the importance of the right gift in China seems to be worth the effort.

• 39. Ben Raymond  |  March 8th, 2011 at 7:54 pm

  I think gift giving is a very nice custom, especially when someone is inviting you as a guest into their territory. I always try to bring a gift when I am staying as a guest in another persons home, especially if it is their parents home. I am pretty accustomed to getting Cal Poly paraphernalia for gifts to my little sisters, I think they each own an entire Cal Poly wardrobe. I think a Cal Poly or California themed gift would be pretty well received by our Chinese hosts. The best gifts are ones that require thought, even if they are inexpensive. The presentation of the gift is something that I will have to put a little more thought into, I am not the most skilled gift wrapper and would not want to offend someone with my sloppiness. Hopefully our group has someone with some gift wrapping skills.

• 40. J Vail  |  March 14th, 2011 at 12:38 pm

  I think that gift giving now put in this context is a much more thoughtful practice than I originally assumed. At first I felt like it was tacked-on and outdated, but the fact that the gift presentation is equally important does have me buy into that feel that it means more than what you. This post was good in giving a pretty safe direction to travel with the gift.

  Still, I am concerned with the process of getting it there. From all my experiences flying I feel like a wrapped present wouldn’t remain crisp travelling in a checked bag. I am surprised that it’s really that hard to find wrapping paper and tape considering the abundance of other products for sale. I might be the person that opts to take a small roll of wrapping paper packed in my bag.

• 41. Chris F.  |  March 17th, 2011 at 1:15 am

  Gift giving is usually customary when I am visiting relatives and friends as it is an appreciation for the hospitality that they usually show when I visit. However, I usually don’t put myself through agonizing decisions when choosing something for family and friends; I believe it’s the thought that counts. However, I think in terms of business(as well personal), the correct gift for the occasion can play wonders in terms of the overall impression of you; whether you give some thought to the situation and are considerate or hastily put something together. I am usually bad when it comes to gift giving for important events (i.e. birthdays or for graduations, etc.). I am also bad at gift wrapping (I am a green person and usually do it with plain brown paper or newspaper - it’s the thing inside that counts right?) so I hope someone on my team could be able to wrap something that is presentable in a professional situation.

• 42. JP Salazar  |  March 18th, 2011 at 12:14 am

  Until now, I have not really understood the importance of gift giving in China. But I am excited to take on the responsibility of performing such an act for one of the companies we visit on our trip. It seems to me that more than anything this exercise in gift giving will teach us a lesson in being humble and respectful. Part of that, though, is understanding what makes up a good gift. Dan raises a good point in his post. We should not judge the validity of a gift based on our American perceptions. It is important that we do some research into the culture and situation that we are entering and choose a gift appropriately. And for Pete’s sake, don’t bring a gift with you from America to China that is made in China. I really liked the suggestion from the article of bringing a product that is produced here in the US or in another foreign country (not China, Japan, or Taiwan) that is prominently labeled with where it is made.
  This gift giving exercise will be a perfect opportunity to showcase some of my compulsive tendencies. I am a perfectionist when it comes to wrapping presents. It is almost a disease. All I can say is that my group won’t have to worry about how their gift will be presented. Hello, my name is JP, and I have a problem with wrapping gifts.

• 43. Omar Pradhan  |  March 18th, 2011 at 2:09 pm

  Great info. I will be on the lookout for interesting CA books and $2 bills;) This article reminds me about one of our negotiation assigned readings on Dr. Robert Cialdini’s persuasion book: Yes! Specifically, the Reciprocity principle of persuasion instructs that I am obligated to give to you, that which you first give to me. Given that resources are scarce in nature, this sort of communal behavior during times of abundance signals to others that they should think of you when THEY have resource abundance (i.e. the situation is reversed). Also, giving gifts to those folks who are kind enough to host us and let us tour their business operations is the least we can do to keep whoever’s in charge feeling as if we are “honoring” and respecting their time…now and on future occasions.

• 44. Chris Carr  |  March 20th, 2011 at 6:21 pm

  @ Tara,

  At our spring meeting, we can visit about this more if you would like.

  Note that the original post is on dated. This year/this trip, I have not given to any of the people we will meet the picture book of SLO country/central coast or or our local wineries, so those can be on the table for this year’s trip.

  Other: the rest is up to you, given the broad guidelines and ideas in this post. Be yourself, make something that extends from who you are or where you live, and you generally can’t go wrong. It’s the effort that counts, in China …

  Prof. Carr

• 45. Kevin K.  |  December 29th, 2011 at 4:42 pm

  According to the Los Angeles Times, not even a UCLA anthropology professor knows exactly what to bring as a gift to the Chinese — especially since they make just about everything on their own shores. Before reading this blog post I really didn’t think about the importance of bringing a gift to people you are visiting; usually we think more about bringing gifts (both for ourselves and for friends and family). When we get into teams, we will certainly have to think about getting a unique present; something that is not just novel, but indicative of who we are and where we come from.

• 46. Vladimir  |  January 6th, 2012 at 11:48 am

  Thanks for providing guidelines for gift giving in China. If I didn’t read them I would have surely committed a blunder by wrapping my gift in blue paper. Does the color of the gift itself matter as well? I noticed that used clothing is a no-no, but how about a used collectible that is in excellent condition? I have a 1996 Atlanta Olympic silver dollar inside a case. I prefer to give something they wouldn’t normally receive. I remember seeing a TV commercial years ago that said to use both hands when giving gifts in China. I read that the gift is considered an extension of the person and presenting it with both hands is a sign of respect. There’s more emphasis in the US on what the gift is and how expensive it is than on its presentation. This reflects a difference between the symbolism of giving and on the gift itself.

• 47. Daniel Fleek  |  January 20th, 2012 at 11:49 am

  I think gift giving is a great way to say thank you for having us in your country. I thought it was interesting that the gift wrapping was critical when giving a gift in China and I would have probably been a victim of insensitive wrapping. I think some good gifts for Chinese men would be popular jerseys or hats of US sports teams like the Lakers or Yankees. For women, I would say cosmetics and dietary supplements would probably be a good gift which can probably be found at Costco. However, I will ask my dad who travels to China for business what he thinks. I thought it was funny that the gifts we give should be made in USA even though more than half the stuff we find at the stores is made in China. I guess this shows that products that are made in the USA are seen to be authentic and high quality in countries like China.

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