TimeZone Journal

If you've worked with Chinese colleagues or clients for any length of time, you've almost certainly heard the expression, "It's about face." It is one of the first concepts introduced in almost every cross-cultural training programme and one of the most frequently cited explanations for behaviour that Western managers find difficult to understand. The problem is that it is often explained far too simply. Face is commonly described as avoiding embarrassment or preventing someo

Many people preparing for international business begin by looking for information about the country they are about to work with. They search for guides on business etiquette, meeting protocols or negotiation styles, hoping to avoid making cultural mistakes. There is nothing wrong with that approach. Understanding the business environment in another country can provide valuable context and help people feel more confident before an important meeting. However, there is a danger