Bus. Eng: “You don’t just jump on a plane to do business”

“The Chinese have been trading internationally for 3000 years. So in 3000 years, they have developed their own set of protocol, their own set of business etiquette. The way you approach them is totally different to what you would if you’re dealing with a Western scenario. Definitely, you need the preparation and training to prepare you to deal with them because their protocol, their business etiquette and their negotiation tactics are very specific. So, you need to get the preparation in order to succeed in your interaction and also to smooth out your relationship with them. If you want an ease of transaction and a flawless interaction with the Chinese, you need to understand them psychologically, socially and in terms of business etiquette.” 

– Sandra Rwese, Chinese Business Coach

Today, we're going to look at the specific business etiquette and protocol of China. This is a Kenyan TV interview with a Chinese business coach. The interview addresses the main question: How do we begin to do business in China?

1) Watch the video and answer the questions that follow:

1. What is it about China that makes it so engaging? (1:07)

2. What is “Double-handed preparation” (Liangshou Zhunbei)? (2:47)

3. Why is it crucial to have a team leader? (3:55)

4. What are the key qualities of a team leader?

5. What does she say regarding:

          -dress code

          -business cards

          -sitting arrangements

          -communication

          -food
         -gift-giving

2) The expressions below in bold come from the interview. Go to http://www.ldoceonline.com/ to look up any that are unfamiliar to you.

A) Banks are strategizing to gear up to serve the Chinese market.(to gear up for s.t./ to gear up to do s.t.)

B) The Chinese will be looking for ,unfortunately, loopholes in your business interactions.

C) Their structure is very hierarchical; there is a strict pecking order.

D) This person will be responsible for bridging the gap between your own CEO and their business team. (to bridge the gap)

E) The team leader must understand every aspect of your company, in and out. Your services, in and out.

F) No showy orange and yellow.(to be showy)

H) How do you carry yourself around social functions? (to carry oneself)

I) Definitely you must be careful with communication. There are certain topics you don’t touch on. (to touch on a subject/topic)

J) There’s no such thing as off the record.  (to be off the record)

K) We have to wrap this up. (to wrap s.t. up)