New ReviewChina has one of the world’s most ancient cultures, yet it’s only since 1978 that foreigners have been welcomed. This long history of cultural isolation helps explain the attitudes Chinese people have toward foreigners, which many...

New ReviewIt’s important to know that the typical workday in China varies depending on the region, the industry, and even what generation you’re talking about. Learn about the different types of companies and what their expectations are for...

New ReviewAre you ready for negotiating in China? The process can be tough, time-consuming, and complex. Don’t go in unprepared! You must be equipped with an understanding of Chinese negotiation philosophy and a basic familiarity with the...

New ReviewConfused by Chinese naming conventions, how to make introductions, or how to address business contacts? In China, the family name usually comes before the given name, but the situation is not always clear-cut; local variations of names...

New ReviewMake your business meetings in China as effective and efficient as possible! You probably already know that conducting a successful meeting takes preparation. The Chinese treat business meetings with importance, and it is essential that...

New ReviewRemember—in Chinese culture, the group is always more important than the individual. Wondering how this collective approach impacts business-management practices, negotiating, and decision-making? Find out how this mindset impacts...

New ReviewConfused about the different types of companies that operate in China? Get up to speed regarding the differences in ownership, market power, governance, and financial performance. Become familiar with China’s four main types of local...

New ReviewThe Chinese take hierarchy very seriously, but don’t be intimidated! Navigating corporate and government hierarchies is key to successful business negotiations and decision-making. Learn how this complex system impacts work culture,...

New ReviewBuilding rapport with Chinese counterparts is absolutely key for business success. Learn the significance of guanxi, or relationships, in Chinese business culture and why nurturing these relationships and developing trust are so...

New ReviewMinimize misunderstandings and missteps when doing business in China! Cultural awareness makes communications more effective and helps you utilize appropriate business etiquette. Get essential tips on greeting others, making...

New ReviewDid you know that China's fascinating history began with the Age of Five Rulers roughly five thousand years ago? Today, more than a fifth of the entire world’s population lives in China—that’s over 1.35 billion people! As a result, the...

New ReviewThe official language of Saudi Arabia is Arabic. It’s helpful to understand that the Arabic language is a Semitic language with more than thirty variations spoken throughout the Middle East. These variations can be grouped into three...

New ReviewBecome a networking expert! Puzzled by the concept of “saving face,” the meaning of feng shui, or the impacts of beliefs on business in Hong Kong? Learn about these things and more, including presenting business cards, shaking hands,...

New ReviewLyon is France's second-largest urban area, situated at the confluence of the rivers Rhône and Saône. Recognized for its commercial and industrial prowess, this ancient Gallic city is known for its strategic location on the rivers. Home...

New ReviewParis exerts its influence in all domains of French life. From its early history two thousand years ago as a Gallic city called Lutetia, Paris evolved over the centuries as a capital city and a main cultural center of Europe. Today,...

New ReviewFrench humor can be farcical, coarse, or extremely literate. Indeed, it can be situational, bitingly sarcastic, and heavy on the intellectual wit. The French tend to be self-deprecating—although, like most people, they'd rather not be...

New ReviewDespite two decades of sweeping economic change, China is still a Communist state. While free enterprise now flourishes in a rapidly growing private sector, China is a one-party country with a government that is radically enmeshed with...

New ReviewEducation in China is compulsory for all children, but there is unequal quality and access for families in the countryside. Learn more about the Chinese education structure and how it is evolving to give students more choices. China's...

New ReviewSince 1950, the official language of China has been Mandarin, called Putonghua or “common speech.” All schools in China teach Mandarin, also called Standard Chinese, and it’s used on television, radio, and in most day-to-day business....

New ReviewJapan is a high-context culture, meaning that people tend to be less direct and explicit in their communications. They often use physical cues and require communication partners to decode their intent. Consequently, communication in...

New ReviewTraveling to Japan, or planning to do business there? Learn more about the Japanese people—their beliefs, values, customs, lifestyles, and mind-sets. Explore what has influenced the way the Japanese think and act. Japan remains an...

New ReviewThere’s no doubt that the Japanese bow is a nuanced and complex art form. For instance, the degree of the bow varies based on age, experience, and rank. Occasionally, the Japanese will add a handshake to their greeting. Many are unsure...

New ReviewZaibatsus are powerful financial and industrial groups in Japan (the term is formed by the Japanese words zai, meaning “money” or “wealth,” and batsu, meaning “clique” or “clan”). These conglomerates have long influenced Japanese...

New ReviewThe Japanese place great value in building relationships and developing trust. Learn more about the importance of a person's background and associations in developing new business contacts. Become familiar with the significance of using...