HR in China

Today we got to learn about some HR issues in China. We learned about expatriates from foreign nations coming to China and what differences they should be aware of when working here in China. We learned that the Chinese have adapted to America's HR practices and do many similar functions like selection planning, selection tests, and once again the importance of guanxi. Professor Bing Ren also explained that turn-over is typically much lower in China then America. In America the typical employee may work for up to 11 different companies while in China, they only work for about 5 to 6 different companies. I feel this must be due to China's practice of guanxi. Chinese companies have very strong company cultures where your company becomes like another family. I feel this is an amazing philosophy as your more likely to enjoy your job and be more willing to work hard. I know I'm going to incorporate guanxi into my business life back in the US.

Professor Bing Ren also explained how expatriates can adapt to Chinese Culture. I found this very interesting as I'd love the idea of doing business in China for a couple of years. Our professor emphasized how important guanxi is to Chinese culture so it is essential that expatriates understand it. Chinese employees have very close relationships with their co-workers and managers, which some expatriates may not be used to. We were given just a few tips to help us. Expatriates should have respect for age and hierarchy which is very important as China is a country of high power distance. We must also be aware of face, harmony, and guanxi. Another important aspect of Chinese culture is its group centered culture as I've talked about before. Lastly, we were told to be aware of China paradox thinking. Professor Bing Ren explained a couple of words. "Ancient" and "Modern" combined together means history, "life" and "death" together means turning point, and conflict is created by combining "spear" and "shield." I really enjoyed Professor Bing Ren's lecture and was excited to hear that he'll be coming to Duluth to help conduct research. I hope I will be able to meet him again back in the US.