Insights · China · Asia
Perspectives for international collaboration.
Analysis and practical guidance on China, Asia and intercultural collaboration—clearly explained and ready to apply.
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Current analysis, practical guidance and perspectives on China, Asia and international collaboration.
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“We’ll get back to you”: Why following up works differently in China
When does a follow-up signal professionalism—and when does it create pressure? A perspective on timing, tact and cultural expectations in China.
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Nemawashi – Understanding the Work Culture in Japan
The Art of the Invisible – In Japan, work begins before it becomes visible. On roots no one sees and decisions made long before they are spoken.
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Feedback – Negative first or positive first?
First the hit, then the pat on the back? Why the order of feedback can be tricky in intercultural teams.
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Home office is never just about where people work.
It is about trust. Leadership. Presence. And about how a society understands work.
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How to say “Unfortunately, I can’t eat this” as respectfully as possible in China
Politeness Code at the Round Table
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Intercultural project management?
One lesson I keep coming back to: the trickiest phase starts before anything “really” begins.
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What do a rural doctor, a truck driver, and a skincare creator in China have in common?
They all move within highly specialized micro-communities – built by algorithms on platforms like Douyin, Kuaishou and Xiaohongshu.
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Premium Friday – rethinking Fridays in Japan
Come with me to Tokyo for a moment. It’s Friday afternoon, 3:00 p.m. In some companies, something happens that you wouldn’t really expect in Japan’s otherwise rather rigid…
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The Short Distance of Politeness An intercultural look at elevator small talk in Germany, China, Japan, and South Korea
The doors close, there’s a hum, a jolt – and suddenly there is only: silence. In a German elevator, those few seconds between the ground floor and the…
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Between Care and Clarity: Hosting Etiquette in China
How to say no respectfully in China—while protecting face and the relationship The elevator doors open, and the scent of jasmine tea blends with lobby piano. “Welcome, Ms.…
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Who pays? Why splitting the bill works differently in Asia
In Germany and several other European countries, eating out is usually straightforward: everyone pays for their own meal, often even with separate checks. In many parts of Asia,…
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At the Round Table – In China, Hierarchy Begins with Seating
It starts before the first dish is served. Before the tea is poured, before a single polite phrase is uttered. Chinese hierarchy reveals itself early—quietly, yet unmistakably: in…
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Dinner at 6. Done by 7:30. No drinks, no extensions.
My first dinner in China was a small culture shock – and a big lesson in efficiency and closeness.
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A Korean name is more than just an identification
A Korean name is more than just an identification – it is a heritage, a meaning, and a wish carefully chosen by parents. The names have a structure.…
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Why “Formal” Makes a Difference in Singapore
Singapore – More Than Just Business. Did You Know the Importance of Formal Business Culture? Singapore – this city, Asia’s vibrant hub, is known for its innovation, excellent…