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Differences and Similarities in Eastern and Western Workplace Cultures

· 2 min read

Here are some immature observations. I have never worked in China, so I filled in the section for Chinese people based on what I heard and saw in school.

Differences

What Americans ValueWhat Chinese People Value
Persuasiveness
Public speaking is the foundation of a democratic society
Actions speak louder than words
A gentleman is cautious in speech but quick in action
Being emotional is shameful/unprofessional
Hypocrisy/professionalism
Being genuine
Losing face
Meetings are for making decisionsMeetings are for finalizing decisions
Preference for diamondsPreference for jade
Confidence
Even if it’s not possible, say it is
I am better than others
Humility
Even if it’s possible, say it’s not
Others are better than me
Independent thinking
Challenging authority
Team spirit
Obedience and execution

Similarities

Both Americans and Chinese value:

  • Business acumen
  • Vision and strategic decision-making ability
  • Unity is strength (The Chinese people I have worked with in the past were very united, although many have biases against this)
  • People are more important than tasks; relationships determine outcomes
  • Flexibility in responding to VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity)