How can I impress a Chinese interviewer?

If you want to further your career in China, you must learn how to interview well. In China, the notion of face (miànzi) governs all commercial contacts, making the in-person interview (miànsh) crucial. While Western interviewing rules still apply, you must maintain your case relevant to your interviewer's cultural viewpoint. The easiest method to seem professional is to address the company's primary recruiting concerns — cultural differences, commitment, and development potential. Several dos and don'ts will assist you communicate with your Chinese interviewer.

SEARCH THE COMPANY AND ITS OPERATIONS

One of the most prevalent worries Chinese firms have when employing foreigners is cultural compatibility. The easiest method to address this fear is to discuss particular corporate initiatives and how your talents will assist the organization achieve its objectives. If you can illustrate how you can add value to comparable initiatives, you will have an instant connection with the interviewer. Research the firm, its operations, and the industry as a whole, and consider how your talent fits into various corporate initiatives. Look up your interviewer and other business members on LinkedIn to see if you have any interests. If there isn't much information in English, try searching in Chinese on Baidu. Researching the company's material in Chinese may help you understand the company's goal. You will impress your interviewer if you can research information in Chinese. Except for international corporations like Lenovo, most Chinese employers do not demand or expect you to create a cover letter as part of your application. Instead, state in the interview why you are interested in the organization and how your talents align with its aims.

NE : LATE

Being late is impolite in China. Arrive 10–15 minutes early for an interview. However, Chinese addresses might be difficult to discover in congested, expansive Chinese cities. In my experience interviewing in Beijing, you should allow an extra hour for traffic delays or getting lost. Arriving early allows you to see the working atmosphere and the corporate culture. It's important to appear calm and relaxed during an interview in China, so don't worry about being late. Less risk than gain!

DON'T: PRINT BI-LINGUAL CARDS

In China, business cards are vital. Businessmen in China who are proud of their networking skills accumulate business cards in big binders. If you're travelling to China for employment, make your own business cards with English and Chinese on both sides. You may also enter your WeChat or Weibo ID. Student business cards are common among study abroad program directors, even if students do not yet have formal professional titles. Even if you don't believe you need business cards, they are an important aspect of interactions in China (Gunx). While not all interviews will need a formal business card exchange, you should be prepared. When exchanging business cards, always use two hands and a small bow. Examine the business card carefully before putting it on the table before you.

Never discuss salary or try to negotiate on the first interview.

Trust takes time to create in China. Business information are not frequently shared when prospective business partners meet, and may even be considered disrespectful. And don't expect to discuss wages or perks in your first interview. Self-introduction (zw jièshào) normally precedes discussion of job details. Except if the interviewers bring up compensation and perks, in which case they undoubtedly need someone immediately, China is an indirect culture. However, it is more probable that you will discuss specifics with HR after an offer has been made or during the final interview rounds.