MOVING TO CHINA

Cultural Differences

Learning about the culture you are moving to is extremely important. This will help break down challenges in communication and prevent misunderstandings. Cultural understanding helps to look at things from a fresh angle instead of a preconceived and often erroneous one. Below are six categories of cultural distinctions the Chinese may view differently than the West: time, communication, group dynamics, status and hierarchy, relationships, and reasoning.

Time

The Chinese put more value on the importance of maintaining relationships and harmony than they do on the swift completion of tasks. Be prepared to be patient and adjust your time expectations.

Communication "face"

The concept of “face” is extremely important to the Chinese. Face is a responsibility between two people that requires participation by both parties. The idea of face is closely tied to Confucian ideals. It’s important to maintain harmony and avoid open conflict. One’s face is ones reputation. The mutual protection of face, rather than clear and concise communication, is important. An important lesson is to know that most Chinese prefer not to say “no” directly when negotiating. Phrases like “perhaps” and even “yes” might have a different meaning. Learn to read behind the lines.

Group Dynamics

In spite of the newly entrepreneurial spirit in China, China is a group oriented society. The Confucian ideal of working collectively and sharing responsibility across a group has a long history and deep roots. Most people are reluctant to voice an opinion in front of a superior. If you are coming to China as a manager, it will take some time for your staff to be comfortable enough to voice different opinions.

Status and Hierarchy

China has a hierarchical culture. Confucian hierarchy stresses the importance of those in lower levels obeying those in higher levels. It is important to respect the lines of hierarchy. Sometimes, obtaining a decision can take time, as one has to pass through various levels to get to the designated decision maker.

Relationships

The Chinese concept of 'guanxi' is extremely important to understand. Guanxi means connections. For the Chinese, carefully cultivating a network of relationships and connections enables them to get things done successfully.

To some Westerner’s, this might resemble favouritism, or in the worst case, bribery. In China, however, this is a time-honoured system. Don’t underestimate the power of guanxi!

Reasoning

Westerners are largely regarded as pragmatic reasoners. They have a goal and they work towards it. In China, there are many external factors that influence a goal and the path to it. These can be anything from interpersonal relationships to obligations to the community or employees to even superstition.

Below are some other tips for getting by in China:

Queuing

While more people in China these days do queue up, traditionally, due to there often being a shortage of necessary resources, the general public is not as used to orderly queuing up as you may hope, often trying to bypass the queue as best they can. This is also reflected in the driving etiquette of the population, leading to somewhat chaotic roads. Whilst there is little one can do about queue jumpers, being aware that this will happen can make it less frustrating.

Traffic/Safety

China has one of the highest rates of pedestrian fatalities in the world. Among them, Beijing has recently been ranked number one in this category. Recently however Chinese cities have been starting campaigns to educate pedestrians and drivers alike about safety and driving etiquette concerns. Remember to be aware of everything around you, and approach traffic with caution.

Toilets

Public toilets are often squat toilets, and may not always have running water. Outside your own home, don’t expect toilet paper to be provided, its best to carry around a small packet of tissues for this purpose and even anti-bacterial hand-gel or wipes, which are widely available here. If you’re out and about, you can usually find a 4 or 5-star hotel with clean toilets.

Geography

Language

People

Government and Territory

History

Holidays & Festivals

Religion