Wearing Western Glasses

There is no mystery to working with the Westerners. Western ways make sense ... to Westerners. They can make sense to you too. It depends upon whether you can 'see' things as Westerners see them. You need a pair of Western glasses! There is no substitute. Come get your pair!

Why are Westerners frustrated when Chinese don't ask questions?

In my 25+ years working in Chinese Asia (see here for more details) hundreds of Chinese have explained their problems with Westerners to me. In almost every case English skills were good (or adequate) yet s/he still had problems communicating with Westerners.

The cause? Using Chinese instead of Western Rules of Communication. Here is a simple example: disagreeing with your boss. The Chinese Rule is "disagree indirectly; protecting relationships is most important." Westerners expect you to follow the Western Rule however: "say what you honestly think (especially if you disagree); being clear is most important." 

Why do Westerners say Chinese don't tell them anything?

Cross-culture success is not easy. You must do things any Chinese mother would consider wrong or impolite. But your career depends upon how you disagree, ask questions, share information and present ideas. Not to mention areas like how to motivate, lead, argue, compete, make friends and build business relationships.

You can not impress your Western boss using Chinese Rules. You must learn Western Rules, must be able to "see" like Westerners do. You need a pair of Western glasses. Come to a webinar or seminar and get your pair!