The title of this post happens to be the theme of the Suixuntong interview series.  It will feature conversations with foreign managers in China who face dual challenges of management and culture.

The inspiration came from enlightening conversations in restaurants and bars where friends (and often my own bosses) speak candidly about their frustration, bewilderment and joy of being a manager in China. These real life stories tell the most down to earth experiences and carry practical and overreaching implications for fellow managers (and employees).

I have known and worked for some great foreign managers in China. They are able to build and lead effective teams because they work particularly hard to understand their staff’s perception, action and motivation shaped by the socio-cultural context. They are the ones who go beyond than just saying ‘why don’t my staff get it’. They observe, communicate and reflect to find a better approach.  I hope their stories will help you get the most out of your team in China. And I look forward to hearing your stories in the interview. Feel free to contact me  jennyzhu at suixuntong.com