A logographic language like Chinese characters, or kanji used by the Japanese, was incompatible with the typewriter. See earlier blog for more on the Chinese typewriter. Digital characters were not available when email initially became available. Besides, official documents frequently …
Did you short me by 2 cents?
According to Freakonomics How Goes the Behavior-Change Revolution? (Ep. 382), overall people prefer an exchange relationship with their banks and on-line businesses. However, when it comes to personal relationships, we flow to a more communal model. That means, we generally …
Before Coffee, What Was the Name for Brown in Chinese?
In Chinese there are a couple of terms for the color brown just as in English hickory and walnut are used to describe brown. One commonly used term before kāfeī or coffee was introduced was “tea” color. Although it is …
Chinese Signage Business
Signage to remind Chinese to use good manners in public is mostly painted by hand. Stencils and templates are used to paint some parts of the signage; however, the headlines and titles are painted precisely in perfect handmade brushstrokes of …
Where is the German part of China? (Part II)
While most American business people are more familiar with Beijing and Shanghai, the mere size of those cities baffles the comparison to North American cities. Qingdao is a good example of how long term contact with another culture had helped …
Where is the German part of China? (Part I)
Qingdao means Green Island, a misnomer since often peninsulas are named before their entire perimeter has been accurately chartered. The Germans came and exacted a lease for 99 years, like its contemporary Great Britain’s lease for Hong Kong. By 1903, …
In Life Sometimes You are the Hammer, Sometimes…
you are the nail. In a Youtube video, Dr. May Hongmei Gao comments on how the Home Depot enterprise misread Chinese culture. This venture was a hugely costly mistake. Is it merely the lack of a DIY culture that caused …
The Ratio of Business to Government Sector is Not Proportional
In contrast, China’s government sector is much greater than its business sector. Like our diplomats, Chinese officials are trained in Chinese etiquette as well as American/Western etiquette. When our two countries meet in the market place so to speak, the …
Thanksgiving in October?
Offices, banks, and schools are closed. You will have a hard time getting an answer via email this week. According to Travel China Guide, the top 3 tips are: 1. avoid traveling to China during this period, 2. if you …
Did You Hear the Glasses Clink?
Champagne glassware is preferred in weddings and formal occasions. Etiquette books probably don’t explain how the clinking of the glasses or coldness of the glass is crucial in adding joy to the event. This multi-sensory experience is taught from social …