Employees in China are often expected to participate in after-work social events or run errands for supervisors. These actions are seen as expressions of loyalty and respect, extending the professional relationship into the personal domain. Such rituals strengthen bonds, build trust, and maintain group harmony, central to the Chinese work ethic.
the fabric of society
Probably everyone would agree that good relationships are an asset both in personal life and also in business. We engage with people on a daily basis and having a good relationship with our counterparts is always helpful. In China, relationships are even more important. Interpersonal relationships, in Chinese called guanxi, are the fabric of society. They dominate personal interactions, business and politics.
reciprocal, intangible, transferable
Guanxi is a cultural phenomenon, based on Confucius teaching, and it is defined as personal relationships that are reciprocal, intangible, and transferable (Luo, 1997). Guanxi really means “connections” and is built on an informal structure that facilitates implicit exchanges of immediate or future favors. These informal structural ties are interwoven within the entire society via families, friends, and acquaintances in China.
reciprocity rooted in Confucian values
The core Chinese logic links work and personal life through guanxi, a system of trust, mutual obligation, and reciprocity rooted in Confucian values. Work relationships are built on personal bonds, long-term loyalty, and social harmony, making personal and professional realms inseparable. This network of relationships is essential for business and social success in China.
“Hard times for Tesla”
A comment from Oliver in Berlin on an article from March 5, 2025 in the New York Times online with the title “Tesla Sales Slump in Europe as Anger Toward Elon Musk Grows.”
“Having worked in marketing for automotive a lot, image is half the hill when you consider high investment purchases like cars. In Germany you think a lot about what your neighbors think. That’s why even ultra rich Germans almost never would buy a Rolls Royce or Bugatti because it sends the ‘wrong’ message about themselves. That said, it’s not just the negative image Tesla has because of Musk. Germans are very detailed and technology obsessed when it comes to cars. And Tesla lost a lot of ground recently while Germany’s car makers not only caught up but even leading in many ways. In design and tech and, definitely in reputation and image. Hard times for Tesla are coming.”
“touch base”
To briefly make or renew contact with someone, often to check on the status of an agreement or project. Example: “I just wanted to touch base and make sure you hadn’t changed your mind about seeing me.”
“Follow up on”
To check in or take action after an initial agreement or meeting, ensuring continuity and accountability.
Example: “Let’s follow up on this discussion in our next meeting.”
“On the same page”
To have a shared understanding or agreement, often maintained through regular communication and updates. Example: “Let’s all communicate constantly so we are on the same page.”