WeChat Messages = The Bridge to Chinese Business WeChat was born to instant message via mobile (get the name…’We’ ‘+ ‘Chat’?). All design decisions have focused on improving the native messaging user experience and as you’ll soon learn, has worked magically. By the end of the article, you’ll be a WeChat machine and ready to make the leap, if you … Read More
WeChat (微信) for Beginners: Introduction
WeChat is the window into China everything. It’s a way for you to connect with friends, do business, and reach millions and millions of people. In a few short years, WeChat has grown from nothing into a messaging and marketing giant. Mobile China = WeChat. WeChat is owned by Tencent (founders of QQ, another popular messaging app) and by the … Read More
Chinese Phone Habits: Anywhere, Anytime
Understand Phone Habits in China Cell phones are an integral part of Chinese society. If you’ve been, or plan to go to China, you’re going to experience the difference in our cultures when it comes to habits talking on the phone. Below I’ll explain some dos, don’ts, and context as to how these practices came about To summarize, you’re going to learn … Read More
Red Envelopes: Create a Culture of Private Giving
The infamous ‘红包 hong bao’ Handing out red envelopes (“红包” or pronounced “hong bao” ) is a custom that dates back hundreds, if not thousands of years. Before and during Spring Festival, companies, families, and friends dish out large amounts of cash all tucked into a red envelopes. Red envelope giving is a society wide method of appreciation for family, friends, and employees. This act is shrouded in privacy … Read More
Pay Your Bills Before Chinese New Year
Personal Story on Workers Collecting Before Chinese New Year Chinese New Year is right around the corner and what most people don’t understand, is the scramble for money that comes along with it. Just last week I was rushed out of our nursery when two, large Chinese men came to collect money (that we don’t owe btw). At year end, companies are expected … Read More
Manage Multi Location Company(s) Through Culture
“If you want one year of prosperity, grow grain. If you want ten years of prosperity, grow trees. If you want one hundred years of prosperity, grow people.” If you manage or have managed a foreign-invested company in China like I do, you know how challenging it is to maintain the quality and integrity of the organization across multiple locations, … Read More