Doing business in China may be well faciliated and lubricated if one can master what I mention as follows:
Guanxi, or weaving a networking context is of vital importance when doing business in China. Do not underestimate the importance of the relationship building process.
People are comfortable building relationships with honourable people who show respect to those to whom respect is due.
As all relationships are unequal it is important, if you wish to appear honourable, to show respect to age, seniority and educational background.
Managers tend to be directive, which reflects basic Confucian concepts of the hierarchical nature of society.
In return for loyalty, the boss is expected to show consideration and interest in all aspects of a subordinates' life.
There are often close relationships between senior management of a company and local party officials.
It is important that you do not make people 'lose face' in front of their group. Always respect seniority and do not openly disagree with people.
Do as many favours for people as possible - debts must always be repaid.
Business cards should be formally exchanged at the beginning of meetings. Treat the business card with great respect, as the card is the man.
Meetings are often long and seemingly without clear objectives. Very often the meeting is an exercise in relationship-building and the aim of the meeting is to move the relationship, rather than any specific business task, forward.
The Chinese are very interested in long-term commitment. Build long-term goals and objectives into your proposals.
Do not be too direct. Strive for diplomacy, consensus and harmony. Remember that this takes time to achieve.
Do not assume comprehension. It is often useful to go over the same point several times from different angles in order to aid comprehension.
It is difficult for the Chinese to say 'no' directly. Anything other than a direct 'yes' could mean 'no'. Be circumspect and reflect on seeming agreements reached. Has an agreement actually been reached?
Gift giving is an everyday part of Chinese business culture. Giving and receiving gifts helps to cement relationships. Take gifts with you when visiting and put some thought and effort into the gift selection process.
Always wrap gifts before giving them. Gifts are rarely opened in front of the giver.
The Chinese are an intensely patriotic race. Do not make disparaging remarks about China, the political situation, human rights etc.
Entertaining is very important in the relationship building process. If entertaining, do it well. If being entertained at a banquet, take you lead from your hosts - they will enjoy taking you through the process.
on 2013-04-23 08:08:00 Tags: business guidelines,do business in China
