Art form or not, in China alcohol is key to doing business despite the government recently having it forbidden in official meetings.

“Anyone who does not understand the culture here does not win at the table,” says the communicator Xiu Weiliang, who has risen to fame after launching his course entitled ‘The art of drinking’, which thousands have already signed up to.

According to the expert, “the unwritten rule is that the amount you drink reflects the closeness you feel for that person.” In addition, says the expert, where you sit is essential, where the guest is placed and even where you put your glass when toasting a superior.

“In Chinese culture, the host should sit facing the door and, among the guests, the most important person should be to the right of the host, and when toasting you must always place your glass under your head,” says Xiu.

Xiu’s objective is that people in China lose their fear of public speaking, and are able to give speeches and gain more confidence in the art of communication. “It’s what my classes are mainly devoted to: a good speech at a reception may be the key to success,” he said.

Source: laprensahn.com