Working For Chinese Boss - Leadership In China

Working for Chinese Boss: Leadership in China

By Biao Wang (MBA)

Camellia Universal Limited9 April 2011

Moscow, Russia

Camellia Universal Limited 2011

Introduction

In China, the demand for leadership knowledge is growing rapidly.

More international consultancy and research companies are trying to enter the market in China.

However, most international leadership consulting businesses fail in China.

It is essential to take into account the main features of Chinese culture and the Chinese mindset and pattern of thinking.

Leadership Common Ground Between China And West

The following skills are universally important: judgement ability, good interpersonal relationships, influential skills, passion, persistency, good achievement and motivation.

Features such as reliability, flexibility, motivation, intelligence, decisiveness, trustworthiness and team spirit are commonly respected.

Neither the Chinese nor others like to work with bosses who are un-cooperative, moody, selfish, rude, dictatorial and self-centred.

The Environment Features of Chinese Leadership

Social environment: Overall consideration & civic awareness.

The main features of Chinese cultural environment.

The main features of Chinese mode of thinking environment.

The Main Features of Chinese Leadership

Pecking order principle

Respect face

Communication style

Communication Style

Activity Direct Culture (West)

Indirect Culture (Chinese)

“Yes” Verbal contract Yes; maybe; I hear what you are saying

“Will Try” Difficult, but possible Describing the action of trying, but with no indication of outcome

Remaining silent

Agreement/nothing to be added

Showing respect; not wanting to disagree publicly

The Relationship Between The Chinese Boss & Employees

In China, the employees need to serve the Chinese boss.

The employees are more comfortable when their boss distributes work for them to do.

The relationship between the Chinese boss and his employees is one of beneficial cooperation.

How To Work For The Chinese Boss

Respect & adopt the Chinese culture. Learn some Chinese: Respect the hierarchy & social status. Build trust & a personal relationship with the Chinese boss. Giving gifts. Understand the Chinese leadership. Respect the face of the Chinese boss. Be humble & patient. Be loyal. Interpersonal harmony & trust is important. Know Chinese social, political, economic & cultural

environment. Deliver as promised.

Conclusion & Recommendation

As the Chinese famous saying goes: “if you know your Chinese boss & know yourself, you can win the confidence & trust from your Chinese boss. If you only know yourself, but not your Chinese boss, you may not gain respect. If you know neither yourself nor your Chinese boss, you will always endanger yourself.”

If you understand & learn the Chinese leadership culture, it will create a positive impression & will have the added benefit of making your work with the Chinese boss more enjoyable.

Questions & Answer Time