Before immigrating to Canada, it is advisable to understand Canadian etiquette to avoid many awkward situations. According to friends who have lived in Canada, there were several Chinese individuals working at a company owned by locals who, feeling particularly close upon meeting, would often gather together to laugh and talk loudly during meals. Over time, this caused resentment among their colleagues, and they were unceremoniously dismissed by their boss after their probationary period. While this may be a common habit in China, Canadians find it highly offensive. China is a nation of etiquette, and one must be particularly mindful of manners wherever one goes. Below, we have compiled several behaviors that Westerners find particularly offensive, hoping it will be helpful to all Canadian immigrants!
1. Using a mobile phone in public;
2. Being self-centered in any situation, believing that one should always come first;
3. Ignoring the needs of the elderly, disabled, or the poor;
4. Using a handheld computer in public;
5. Not saying "thank you." Saying "thank you" does not take much time. For Chinese people, the most uncomfortable thing is saying "thank you," as the Chinese tradition is that "great kindness does not require thanks," meaning small favors need not be mentioned. In the West, not saying thank you is a sign of poor upbringing. It is better to follow local customs; for even small things like someone making way for you, opening a door, or handing you something, you should say these two words.
6. Showing a confused expression when a stranger greets you is very rude. In Western countries, it is common for passersby to greet each other; this is a basic social etiquette. Do not view it as "hitting on you" and ignore it. Even if you do not speak, a smile can show your friendliness.
7. Interrupting others during a conversation is extremely impolite. Unless the "sky is falling," you must let others finish expressing their thoughts completely before responding.
8. Laughing and talking loudly while eating is very inappropriate in Canada. The most basic etiquette while eating is to be quiet. You should not chew food recklessly or make loud slurping noises while drinking soup, as this will draw glares from others. Of course, this does not mean you cannot say a word while eating; you may speak softly, provided you swallow your food first.
I once heard from a friend that several Chinese people working at a company owned by Canadians were dismissed by their boss without hesitation after their probationary period because they would gather together to laugh and talk loudly during meals, which caused great resentment among their Western colleagues over time. This shows that etiquette plays a pivotal role in daily life.
1. When several good friends meet on the street, they like to walk side-by-side, which is very impolite in the West and seriously obstructs others.
2. Failing to respond to invitations from others is also inappropriate. This is the same in both China and Canada; you must respond immediately and clearly state whether you can attend, even for verbal invitations. If you decline an invitation, you should usually provide a reason to show politeness.
3. Always competing with cars for the right of way while walking is most common in China, but in Canada, cars have the right of way.
4. You should shake hands when meeting for the first time; refusing to do so is very rude. Usually, women or the elderly extend their hand first.
5. In the workplace, you should not wear eccentric clothing or excessive jewelry, nor should you wear heavy makeup or revealing attire.
The above are the life details that Canadian immigrants should pay attention to, and I hope this helps everyone.
