MANAGING CROSS-CULTURAL INTEGRATION

When we want to communicate with people coming from a completely different cultural background, we need to understand and manage behaviours which can seem unusual, often strange, sometimes even hostile.

In order to succed in the communication and negotiation processes with chinese managers and entrepreneurs, we should know and understand those norms and values which guide and inspire them. In return we will receive the understanding and the respect of our own norms and values.

Therefore learning how to understand the cultural roots that characterize our interlocutors’ behaviour (both clients, suppliers, competitors, partners and/or colleagues). Respecting chinese culture though, is not enough. The true challenge is learning to take advantage of a shrewd management of cultural differences.

Starting to learn chinese culture is also an excellent opportunity to gain a better understanding of our own culture.