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 Value | What 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 decisions | Meetings are for finalizing decisions |
| Preference for diamonds | Preference 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)