It is hard today not to be aware of the influence of China on our social interaction. Aside from dragons and firecrackers there are some key learning points that UK firms may wish to be aware of as we head through the Spring Festival period

Oranges and WeChat

Similar with the pagan festivals driving traditional Anglo Saxon Christmas festivities, the tangerine or orange are prevelant and which in Chinese pronunciations reflect luck and wealth. If you can't access your local fruit stall then head to WeChat. This is where Chinese diaspora and related ecosystem share their good wishes for the New Year. The Year starting 28th January 2017 is the Year of the Rooster, one of the 12 animals or shiangxiao represented in a 12 year cycle.

So over a 4 hour period on 27th January (GMT) I received almost 1000 messages on WeChat sending me messages of good luck, health and prosperity for the coming year. All of these had dynamic images of diamonds, chickens, oranges and fireworks as well as poems so embrace the WeChat 'translate function' and join in the fun.

Red envelopes or hongbao

It is the honour and privilege of senior members in a family or community to hand out these red envelopes called hongbao. Traditionally filled with money and in particular the red rmb100 bank note, this bestows on the recipient energy, happiness and good luck. If you have Chinese staff then it is essential to offer them such envelopes - with both hands - during the Spring Festival period. The amount of money is less important than the symbolism and you are likely to receive tangerines as a return gift.

Of course, WeChat has got in on the act and sending electronic red envelopes has pretty much the same symbolism. Have a Chinese friend help you load up your WeChat account and spread the gifts to your friends.

Refresh your business cards

Starting the New Year with. Fresh set of business cards is also important. Planning for new cards early in January will set you up for meetings early in the Chinese New Year. But such is life that do not be disappointed if while during meetings over this period that your Chinese contacts do not offer you a card in return.

While the Chinese really take Spring Festival seriously with many family engagements, do not think they are taking their eyes off work. They will be digesting and sharing the information you gave them before Christmas and in January and will be very keen to make progress when they return from holidays.