On the Chinese Business Philosophy

Business practices in the East have one clear distinction from those of the West: the number one priority in deciding to engage in business with a new partner is not money; instead the basis for deciding on closing a deal revolves around the personal relationship being built.

When conducting business with clients in China, getting to know a new business partner in preparation to close a deal takes place over half a dozen dinners during the course of six months with conversation topics that range from family and art, to philosophy– anything that doesn’t relate to business or politics.

In traditional Eastern thinking, the key to success is believed to be found on the inside. The inner world of a human being is of the highest value. The way to the top is inside yourself, through self–development. Chinese business men understand that working with an interpersonally well–developed client is much more promising than working with only a good business plan.

Mr. Miyagi’s "wax on, wax off" lesson is a prime example for illustrating the Chinese perception of business. Some merely see waxing as inessential to the larger picture of learning how to fight Karate, but when done correctly, waxing works to develop a person’s character from within. It requires attention to detail, mindfulness, and honesty within oneself. How you wax—whether under the watchful eye of Mr. Miyagi or under your own supervision—reveals the nature and integrity of your character.

Ultimately, waxing is the perfect metaphor for how you conduct business; are you a perceptive, honest and attentive person, both during business and outside of it? This is what the Chinese seek to find out over the course of those dinner conversations. They understand that an integral client with a poor business proposal is better to work with than a good business proposal with a client lacking in integrity.

Curiously enough, all successful people, in health, life, and material matters, incorporate self–development into their life purpose. Practicing yoga, meditation, painting, and martial arts are some ways to cultivate success and happiness into your life. Science has proved to us that such practices lead to lower blood pressure and reduced heart rate, known by the Chinese as Inner Peace or tranquility. Find inner peace and find success.