We all know it, China is one of the best destinations for English teachers. Going to Birmy International English School, for instance, is an excellent opportunity not only for employment and career advancement, but for personal development as well. Indeed, there are so many benefits to coming to China to work as an English teacher.
When it comes to adjusting to Chinese culture, can it be considered fun as well? In this article, you will get some tips that may spare you from humiliation or from being thought of as rude.
DO’s
1. Be on time all the time.
Chinese people value time so much, so they can’t stand unpunctual people. Every time you make an appointment with someone, you have to show up on time. If not, that could be considered as an act of disrespect. When you work at Birmy English School, you are also expected to be in your classes on time.
2. Greet older people with respect.
When you meet someone who is older than you, it is important that you show respect and recognition by lowering your head before the person. But if you are meeting someone who is just your age, you can simply smile, wave, and say “Ni hao!”. Unlike in most Western countries, kisses and hugs are not accepted as a form of greeting in China.
3. Drink and eat as much as you can.
If you get invited for a dinner or a party by local Chinese people, make sure you eat and drink as much as them. They would love to see you enjoy that food they offer you. Refusing what they are offering you could cause some of them to feel disappointed.
DON’Ts
1. Don’t wear very revealing clothes.
When you live in China, you have to avoid wearing very short skirts or shorts especially when you enter a temple or go to school or work. Many locals will be shocked if you show too much of your legs or neckline.
2. Don’t get angry in public.
Chinese people find it hard to understand and deal with people who display anger publicly, especially if they are foreigners. For the Chinese people, keeping the harmony is always very important.
3. Don’t address people by their first names.
Unlike in Western countries, the last name always comes first in China. Chinese people are not comfortable calling and being on a first name basis.
Getting Used to Chinese Norms and Culture
It may seem overwhelming to have to learn every aspect of the Chinese culture. If you are to work at Birmy English School to teach English, you don’t have to worry much about all these. Everyone at Birmy will be there to assist you and teach you everything you have to learn about Chinese culture.
