Joining first time meeting with Chinese people is one of great way to interact with, understand the Chinese culture, and practice language in a relax conversation. Here are some tips on how to handle your first Chinese meet up in China.

It is becoming more and more popular to shake hands upon meeting, but sometimes a simple nod is how Chinese will greet each other. When a handshake is given, it may be firm or weak but don't read into the firmness of the handshake as it's not a sign of confidence like in the West but a simple formality. Avoid hugging or kissing during greetings and farewells.

A formal greeting includes a verbal nĭhăo / 你好” (hello - informal) or “nínhăo / 您好” (hello - formal for older generation) and a slight bow of your head. If you do have a close relationship with someone, this initial interaction could vary, but when formally meeting someone new, you should go the route of a verbal greeting with a slight bow.

Take some notes about any questions you might have, or language points you wish to discuss on meeting in case of freeze up, and struggle to maintain a conversation here are some examples of practical questions you can use:

Can I add your WeChat?

我可以加你的微信吗？

Wǒ kěyǐ jiā nǐ de wēixìn ma?

What places do you like to hang out with friends on weekends?

周末你们喜欢跟朋友去哪里玩？

Zhōumò nǐmen xǐhuān gēn péngyǒu qù nǎlǐ wán?

How do you say it in Chinese?

这个用中文怎么说？

Zhège yòng Zhōngwén zěnme shuō?

Practice your Chinese language with native speakers may give you the opportunity to learn more about the culture and language in casual environment.