Working in China
For an expat, earning the trust of a Chinese employer may take much more skill than in it would in one's home country, not only on the job but also in terms of social networking. This is because businessmen and their managers rely a lot on referrals.
Businessmen will often have a soft spot for those who are learning their native language. In fact, in various progressive industries today, such as information technology, telecommunication and engineering, certain positions are reserved for foreigners who speak Mandarin and will allow for very attractive pay.
Those who have the qualifications for teaching English may also find China as a good place to find a well-paying job. English teachers are some of the top-earning expatriates in this country. Engineering and other middle to high level management positions in foreign companies are also some of the highest paid jobs.
Business Etiquette
In a typical Chinese workplace, people are addressed using their family names and handshakes are a very common gesture of friendliness, especially towards Westerners. In a white collar environment, formal attire is always expected. When coming to meetings, the highest-ranking person should enter the room first and the most senior sits at the head of the table and must be addressed first.
In general, the Chinese are known as very hardworking and industrious people and for an
expat who wants to live in
China and make a mark in its corporate world, this trait is something he must learn by heart.
More Expat Resources
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