Gifts

[h1 size=100%]Exactly what to give, and how, depends on the situation. Below is only a general guideline. Contact us for specific advice.
What: Select something not easily available in China or a high-value brand name. Alcohol always popular and may smooth subsequent discussion. If bringing individual gifts make sure you have a few spares with you.

We particularly like the following lines of Irish gifts

Wild Goose Studios (Cork)
Cooley Distillery (Irish Owned & Operated)
Newbridge Silverware (Kildare)
Mullingar Pewter Tankards

What Not: Shoes, Clocks, Green Hats, Books (in general). Avoid personalizing gifts and ensure gifts to individuals are appropriate to their position.

How Much: Not much. Do not spend too much on a gift. If your counterpart has not spent that much on the gift they will lose face and if the gift is perceived as too valuable it may be seen as a type of bribe. Neither of these outcomes will be helpful to your business dealings.

How to present: The wrapping of gifts is important and a great deal of effort will go into preparing a beautiful package. Do not wrap the presents before leaving Ireland (not least because Customs may want to inspect them), ask your hotel to have the gift wrapped professionally unless you have particular flair.

When to present: Visitors will present gifts first, in general at the end of the meal or meeting. To avoid any embarrassment or loss of face (i.e. if the host does not have a gift for you) your interpreter should hint to the host’s group that you will be presenting a gift. If that does happen, do not tease your host about it!

How to receive: Receive with both hands and thank sincerely & profusely. Do not unwrap there and then unless your host opens their present -in which case hopefully both are of similar value.