Asia Business Communication 101

Since the beginning of civilization, humanity, communication, and culture have been closely connected. In fact, it is impossible to survive in isolation from the other. Moreover, each develops because of the other. Every culture has its own distinctive background, assumptions as well as experiences, expectations, and different views on particular issues.

If at the very least two different cultures come into contact in any business venture, there is a chance to experience difficulty communicating (e.g., confusion and miscommunication) or simply the inability to even communicate. Let’s consider China as well as the United States as examples since both have been in business for a long time and are in close proximity to determine who will be the leading economic superpower.

Both nations have their own set of business etiquette. Both have their own experiences and histories. Both are large nations with diverse populations within their borders. They are also governed by their very own set of rules for doing business locally or internationally.

For instance, those in northern China may have different views on business conduct than people in the southern region of the country and America. The United States, and vice the reverse. They may share the same language. However, these countries are so vast that their people tend to develop their individual set of rules that include standards, business rules, and customs independent of what their nation and the entire society require.

Here are some everyday nuances and issues business communication faces when two cultures attempt to talk to each other.

Correspondence

In the US nowadays, it’s generally accepted and commonplace to conduct business through the internet, instant messaging, and video conferences. The correspondence that is sent is controlled by professional and formal aspects required for business communications. This is why Americans think of it as an official business card.

In China, things are slightly different. Chinese aren’t aware of the significance and importance of emails in business communications. Many complain that their emails do not work or that they have limited settings for firewalls. Emails from China aren’t supported by mobile platforms. This is why messages are frequently refused.

Americans are used to communicating via any medium accessible. In contrast, the Chinese highly regard face-to-face communication, particularly when it comes to business dealings with other nations. This distinction is a factor that affects the flow of business relations between the two countries.

Language

Evidently, Chinese and Americans have different languages. The issue isn’t the language in itself but the way they use their languages to communicate.

Chinese speak their language in accordance with their belief in humanism and respecting their privacy. It’s highly unusual for them to reveal their marital status, age or family members, income, and where they reside in relation to their foreign counterparts. It’s not even acceptable if a (stranger) casually asks, “How’s your family?” It’s a very polite act in Western society.

In reality, it’s normal and considered acceptable to talk to other people (e.g., Americans) casually. If you ask, “Have you eaten?” Americans interpret it as an informal query and not something you would have to ask at a formal meeting. However, to the Chinese, it’s just an opportunity to show hospitality and friendliness.

Mindset

Chinese have a collective mind, and they focus on the bigger view. They believe in creating harmonious relations with one another. Contrary to what they say, Americans are personal value adherents.

They place emphasis on the individual concept, dividing the whole concept into smaller groups and then breaking them down into an essential element that they can study in a group. Americans are proponents of independence, self-reliance, control, self-development, and self-improvement.

Silent communications

If you are attending business events, It is a standard norm to adhere to the protocol for greetings of the country that hosts you. For instance, the Chinese are not particularly attracted to touching or patting to the side as a way of greeting; however, Americans are more comfortable and comfortable with this.

After being introduced, Chinese are very formal. They are standing throughout the introduction. Their level of the bow is determined by age, rank, or age. However, Americans are not like that. They are more casual and even a bit friendlier. They shake hands after being they are introduced.

People from southern China express their gratitude by tapping two fingers across the table. The practice isn’t widely known in northern parts of China. When they negotiate, the people of Beijing prefer to be patient before coming up with the final decision. If the Chinese generally suggest the idea that the integrity of their territory isn’t respected, They tend to respond with a ferocious stance, which to Americans is excessive and unnecessary.

These are only some of the differences that could arise when people from different backgrounds, different cultures, traditions, and customs come together. If not taken into consideration, they can affect the flow of business communications and affect the results.

Therefore, it is essential to realize that to generate profit-making business communication, and it’s essential to recognize and understand these differences, mainly when working with people who have different cultures and customs. In the final analysis, there is a motive behind why people work and continue to communicate regardless of the differences between them.