Getting started with Chinese business culture essentials

Business dealings with China are on the increase. As a result, more and more organisations and business people are realising the need of doing more than just adhering to the rules of Chinese etiquette (such as presenting business cards with both hands) or the ‘dos and don'ts’ (such not opening gifts in front of your hosts) to have successful business meetings. What is needed is the understanding of the much broader context of Chinese culture and values that permeate Chinese business contexts so as to engage in enduring business relationships. This short course is designed to introduce some core Chinese cultural beliefs and values, highlight some potential challenges and bring in stories and reflections from Westerners who have lived and worked in China. A perfect introduction to doing business with China.This OpenLearn course is an extract from the beginning of the Open Centre for Languages and Cultures short course, LG002 Chinese business culture essentials. After completing this free course, you may wish to register for the full course to continue your learning!

• Introduction
• 1 What is culture?
• 1 What is culture?
• 2 Culture and the perspective of others
• 2 Culture and the perspective of others
• 3 Intercultural competence
• 3 Intercultural competence
• 4 The importance of family
• 4 The importance of family
• 5 A little goes a long way
• 5 A little goes a long way
• 6 Chinese greetings
• 6 Chinese greetings
• Conclusion
• References
• Acknowledgements