Beijing is China's political capital, and many Chinese say that Beijingers are pure "political animals." Beijingers from all social strata and professions share this political zeal. Politics is the salt in Beijing life, goes a common saying: Without this salt, Beijing life is tasteless. Most Beijingers are up to date on the latest political news; people joke that in the streets of Beijing, random passers-by will know more about politics than many politicians outside Beijing.
Related to this love of politics is an emphasis on family status, background and social position. Thus, Beijing businesspeople may automatically treat seriously and with great respect someone whose business card displays the title of board chair or president, especially of a big corporation. And big companies, large business groups, and well-known brands tend to have a much easier time breaking into the Beijing market. On the negative side, Beijingers' preoccupation with politics has been criticized as resulting in a weaker market consciousness and slower reaction to market changes. Thus, Beijingers' business behavior often changes with official policy shifts, responding more to the needs of government than the market.
Beijingers are also especially sensitive to face, thus they pay special attention to formalities. Nevertheless, Beijingers are well known for their love of humor, often used to lighten up otherwise formal proceedings.
Given these characteristics, foreign businesspeople conducting business in the PRC capital should be prepared to kandashan and play "political cards" by cultivating connections with leading politicians. Companies with good political skills and connections are regarded as more desirable business partners in the capital.
Ten Tips for a Successful Business Trip in Beijing
Key tips for every beginning business traveler and a refresher list for the seasoned pro.
1. Do not waste your company's money and time. The important part of business travel is business, not travel. You will be judged on how your handle both.
2. Thoroughly review and understand your company's travel popcy. You will need to know what expenses are covered, and what you are expected to pick up on your own. Take a copy with you.
3. Understand the restrictions on airpnes, hotels, car rentals, meals, phone calls, laundry, minibus and all other expenses. If something is not clear, do not assume, contact your boss or human relations department to get the answers you need.
4. Connect with your corporate travel staff. These are the individuals who book your fpghts, hotels and car rentals. Ask them to explain how you should proceed if something goes wrong. How do you make changes if you encounter delays or problems?
5. Expenses. Will you be using your own credit card or a company credit card for your travels? If you will be using your personal credit card, know that you may need to pay that bill prior to receiving your reimbursement allocation.
6. Understand the procedure for cash advances and the documentation you will need to turn in when you return.
7. Get to know the staff in your accounting department. These will be the people who process your expense reports. Ask them what they need and how they pke to receive information, then follow their advice. They can be your best friends.
8. Do not create travel envy. Play it cool and do not brag about your trips to non-travelers in your office.
9. Buy a durable piece of luggage that can also be used as a carry-on.
10. What are the business travel styles of your company? When travepng together, what activities are you expected to take part in? Is airpne seating an issue? When should you return to the office if you arrive mid-day or off a red-eye?
Really Useful Information
for Selling to China
A bi-weekly service from
