When someone is starting a new job, the Chinese elders who follow the traditional rituals would give the young person a red envelope or red packet Lai See in Cantonese). It is a monetary gift which is given during holidays or special occasions like when someone embarks on a new career.
The red coloured of the envelope or packet symbolizes good luck and the Chinese believe that it will help to ward off evil spirits. The amount of money contained in the envelope usually ends with an even digit, for instance 16, 18 are both lucky numbers, as odd numbered money gifts are traditionally associated with funerals. Don't give amounts ending in 4 as the Chinese associate the number with death or bad luck.
So if you are getting your first job or changing to a new one and want it to have an auspicious start, don't forget to remind your elders to present you with a red packet (containing money) for good luck. For those who are married, the husbands or wives could give them the lucky red envelopes. Even friends can give it to you for good luck and career success. Usually, the money in the red packet is not used but kept as a good luck charm.
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