Culture Clash
Culture Clash
Mingling skills not
taught in all cultures'My feet feel as if they are stuck in cement," Wang Jin said to himself as he observed people circulating smoothly at a reception to which he had been invited. Wang Jin, from Nanjing, China, had traveled to Seattle to represent a company that produced fine dinnerware. He had no difficulties identifying potential buyers at upscale stores. One day, he was invited to a reception for the new vice president of a large department store.
The reception started at 7 p.m., and Wang Jin arrived just a few minutes late. As the evening progressed, he noticed that people spent a few minutes with many different people, moving from individual to individual in a seemingly effortless manner. Wan Jin tried to talk with others and even though people were friendly, he was very uncomfortable integrating himself into the movement from person to person.
When I ask business people from Asia about difficulties adjusting to the United States, they say it is hard to attend receptions where they are expected to circulate.
In China, Wang Jin would have attended many receptions, but interactions among people are different. People often spend the evening with others whom they already know. They might meet one or two people for the first time, but these would be based on introductions from high status individuals who feel that certain people should become acquainted. Receptions often take the form of banquets where people share the same table for an evening and are not expected to interact with people at other tables.
Chinese business people are able to give advice, some of it humorous, to Americans who are invited to social gatherings in China. They advise people to arrive at the party early and to look for individuals who are having an animated discussion. "Be sure the group you join has some interesting people, because you will be with them all evening."
Older and high status people often arrive late and younger guests are expected to give them attention and deference. "If you want to avoid interacting with the older executives, try to maneuver your group into a corner so that you will have the excuse of not seeing people who arrive late."
Americans who know this cultural difference can offer assistance. At the reception in Seattle, someone might "rescue" Wang Jin and introduce him to others. Wang Jin is likely to be highly appreciative and may return the favor with various concessions during upcoming business negotiations.
The purpose of this column is to increase understanding of human behavior as it has an impact on the workplace. Special attention will be given to miscommunications caused by cultural differences. Each column will start with a short example of such confusion. Possible explanations will be offered to encourage thought about these issues.
Richard Brislin is a professor in the College of Business Administration,
University of Hawaii. He can be reached through the
College Relations Office: cro@cba.hawaii.edu