Tips on China's Culture
One quarter of the population on this earth are Chinese. Just in China alone, there are 1.3 billion people. As I am writing, how many more are born? It is impossible to generalize the tactics to deal with different Chinese people. Here I am sharing with you some of my experience from working in the area and being a Chinese myself! Remember: this is my personal experience only. You need to spend time, show respect and open your mind in order to understand anybody, as it is true in all human relationships.
There are so many different aspects involved in understanding Chinese. You can take the approach of ideology, business, philosophy, religion, economy and of course the most trendy "the art of war".
What to talk about?
Well, I will start with what to talk about regarding opening a conversation. China is like Europe. It comprises of many different sub-cultures with different liking and focus in various parts of the country. Beijing Chinese like politics, Shanghai Chinese like business, Hong Kong Chinese like brand names.
A lot of the Chinese in Beijing are very patriotic and they like to talk about politics. It may be because they are in the capital city.
When you go to Beijing, you may find that even the taxi driver will discuss politics with you. If there are any incidents happening around the world that can upset the Chinese's emotions, you know you need to be careful.
As China's economy grows, the Chinese, especially those in the capital city become more confident when they are dealing with westerners. So do not go into the country with an ego as if you are still in the colonial period. Show respect and recognize the fact that you are a guest in China.
You can discuss politics with the people in Beijing, but I advise you to put down any prejudice.
I spent a lot of time in Beijing. I like the people there a lot. They are genuine people and very hospitable. Do not say no to a dinner invitation. They trully want to show you the country they are proud of. Leave your quiet night in the hotel room behind. Join the crowd. You will find out more than you expected!
Due to the unique economic position of Shanghai, the Chinese there are very business-minded. A lot of them prefer speaking their own dialet: Shanghainese. Some people learn Shanghainese in order to do business with the Chinese in Shanghai. It is a clever idea if you at least learn a few words in Shanghainese before you go to Shanghai!
Shanghai Chinese are also relatively more fashion-conscious. It may be a good idea if you take more attention in what you dress when you meet them. Due to the close tie between Hong Kong and Shanghai, they two cities influence each other. International brand names, musicals, western high life style are the things they like. A lot of them are actually very well-exposed to western cutlure. The musical Cats was a big hit in Shanghai. You will find many good friends and have a lot of common topics.
Shanghai Chinese are also very smart in doing business. Their pace is fast and they will stand firm in negotiation. You need to find a mutual beneficial way.
Have you heard of the beauty trap in Shanghai? Send me questions, I will tell you more.
Chinese in Hong Kong, where I came from, was a British colony before 1997. The financial system, the legal system, the education, the media behaviour are very much influenced by the UK. It is still a very flexible place to start a business with its simple and low cost tax system.
Hong Kong is also very international. The media industry is mature. It is where you can receive first-hand news about China.
Hong Kong people (and Asia generally) suffered a big economic blow a few yaers ago. It was reflected in the collapse of the property market in Hong Kong. Many Hong Kong people got rich because of the property market. Since the collapse, many became "negative millionaire", possessing negative equity. In addition to the growing competitiveness from Shanghai, the people in Hong Kong have struggled to find their role in Asian and international stage. Many people talked about it and have studied a lot. I think the trend now, the people in Hong Kong have accepted that things have changed. While maintaining the mature, westernised legal and financial system, a lot of them have integrated themselves with the business in Mainland China with the advantage of their proximity. Hong Kong people are known to possess fighting spirit!
When you meet people in Hong Kong, apart from talking about international shopping brand names, ask them about the property market. They will have a lot of stories to tell you.
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