News from JMS
Welcome to our blog, where we plan to feature news, views and translation clues. Things like: did you know that English cats say ‘meow’, German moggies ‘miau’, French felines ‘miaou’, and Spanish Siamese ‘miau’. Pause for thought…
The concept of ‘face’ in Chinese culture
It is extremely difficult to explain the concept of ‘face’ (mianzi), and its consequences and implications for foreigners, in Chinese culture but it is equally vital for Westerners to be aware of it if they hope to be successful in forming relationships with Chinese clients, colleagues or friends. Take it too lightly at your peril; your relationships, commercial and personal, will suffer. Making a mistake in public is a deeply humiliating experience for the Chinese and they will do whatever they can to avoid looking bad in front of others. Saving face is also about one’s image and status within society. It is much more complex than Westerners might think and must be given due respect. A business deal could easily be broken if your business partner feels you have caused him or her a loss of face. In a business context face can work both ways and be mutual. Showing respect, giving a small gift and praising achievements in public are all ways in which to give face. In order to avoid losing it, avoid showing anger, criticising people in public and addressing conflict directly. More facetime soon…