As a successful manager currently serving at an American company, I would be excited and overwhelmed to take on a new challenge and embrace the opportunity to work in China for a three-year assignment in order to thrive professionally in my field. However, I would also be aware of the challenges and differences that come with the change in culture and working in a foreign country. Firstly, I would ensure that I have all the necessary documentation including a visa, work permit, copy of the contract with the Chinese company, and Z-visa required for work in China. I would also make sure that my original university certificates and criminal background checks are notarized in the country I am currently working in. Secondly, I would research the cultural customs and norms of China to better avoid the conflicts and differences in culture which will help me better understand Chinese people and their way of living. The prior research about the culture and customs of China before actually landing in the country would help me to communicate more effectively with my officials, colleagues, and clients and avoid any cultural misunderstandings.
Based on the ideology of Globalism to work in a completely different country and culture of China, I would try to learn basic words and Mandarin Chinese in particular, as it is the most widely spoken language in China, in order to avoid conflicts that could arise due to the language barrier. This would also help me embrace the differences between Chinese and American culture and I would be willing to learn from my colleagues in an effective manner. This ideology would also help me become open-minded and flexible when it comes to adapting to the new environment, new workforce, new staff, as well as new ways of living and working. Regarding my candidacy for a managerial role in a completely different culture and environment, my approach to management through flexibility and adaptability would allow me to be a role model for others to follow. I would pre-plan my managerial role while I would be in California so that I could set the course and direction as being a visionary leader for my subordinates working under me while taking care of their needs and understanding their strengths so that they can reach the highest of their abilities.
Furthermore, I would also familiarize myself with the business practices and etiquette in China which can differ significantly from those in the United States. As per my knowledge about business culture in China and other Asian countries, building relationships is a key to doing business successfully. Therefore, I would prioritize building strong relationships with my clients, colleagues, and other stakeholders. Moreover, I would also make an effort to understand the local market and consumer preferences to tailor the company’s products and services accordingly. To ensure a smooth transition from American culture to Chinese culture, I would seek guidance from my Human Resources (HR) personnel about the rules of employment for foreigners in China to make sure that I follow all relevant rules and regulations of the country as well as the workforce. Overall, as a successful manager in an American company in California, I believe that with proper preparation and an open mind, working in China for a three-year assignment can be a rewarding experience both professionally and personally.
References
Farina, J. (2021). Nationalism, Globalism, and Religion. Revista Portuguesa de Filosofia, 77(Fasc. 1), 411–426.
Hutchinson, J. (2003). Nationalism, globalism, and the conflict of civilizations. In Nationalism and its Futures (pp. 71–92). Springer.
