Mastering Cross-Cultural Communication: The Key to Successful Business with Foreign Customers in China

Authors

  • Sam Sebastian Weah II Master’s in Business Management, School of Business, Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing, China https://orcid.org/0009-0006-0004-972X
  • Mahin Mashud Bachelor’s in International Economics and Trade, School of Business, Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing, China
  • Nur Alam Rakib Bachelor of Computer Science and Technology, School of Computer Science, Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing, China.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.55677/GJEFR/01-2025-Vol02E5

Keywords:

Cultural Nuances, Language Proficiency, Technological Tools, Communication Styles, Customer Satisfaction.

Abstract

This paper explores the challenges of communicating with foreign customers in China, focusing on factors such as culture, language, technology, customer choice, communication approach, translation, manners, behaviour, time, and frequency. Understanding cultural differences and norms is crucial for establishing business relationships. English is the primary medium of communication in international business environments, but Mandarin Chinese is appreciated and respected. Decentralized bilingual communication allows for localization and avoids misunderstandings. Relationship development is another means of interaction, with networking, social events, and mutual respect for business and personal relations, known as Guanxi. A sense of trust and friendly understanding between companies is essential for long-term business relations. The dependent variable is customer buying satisfaction. The study aims to create a conceptual model outlining how Chinese organizations can communicate with foreign customers and segment communication based on customer preferences. The proposed strategies aim to enhance customer satisfaction and create sustainable market success.

References

1. Abdelhady, D., & Alkinj, M. (2023). Communication Styles in Cross-Cultural Contexts. Journal of International Communication, 45(3), 56-74.

2. Akon, T., Hossain, S. and Akter, F., 2025. Harnessing Social Media Trends as a Catalyst for Small Business Growth. American Journal of Economics and Business Innovation, 4(1), pp.157-168.

3. Alonso, M., & Vieira, R. (2020). The Role of Real-Time Translation in Enhancing Cross-Cultural Communication. Language and Communication Studies, 17(2), 45-59.

4. Arora, A., et al. (2021). Timing and Frequency of Communication for Customer Engagement. Marketing Science Review, 22(4), 103-118.

5. Bańka-Orłowska, M. (2020). Cross-Cultural Communication Etiquette in Chinese Business. Asian Business Journal, 16(1), 89-104.

6. Bartosik-Purgat, M., & Rakowska, A. (2023). The Influence of Communication Styles on Chinese Business Culture. Journal of Business Communication, 25(2), 32-49.

7. Balaji, M., et al. (2020). Building Trust in Chinese Consumer Markets: A Focus on Etiquette. Journal of Marketing and Consumer Behavior, 18(3), 77-91.

8. Cheng, M., et al. (2024). Social Customs and Consumer Behavior in China: A Cultural Perspective. Journal of Consumer Research, 28(1), 20-36.

9. Chesebro, J. W., & Lyon, L. A. (2020). The Impact of Communication Timing in Cross-Cultural Business Relationships. International Journal of Business Communication, 19(4), 59-74.

10. Chung, C., & Tang, X. (2022). Cultural Nuances in Chinese Consumer Behavior: An In-Depth Analysis. Journal of Cross-Cultural Marketing, 31(2), 45-64.

11. Costello, A., et al. (2020). Maximizing the Impact of Communication Through Strategic Timing in Chinese Markets. Business Strategy and Development, 5(2), 112-126.

12. Creelman, J. (2022). The Importance of Language Proficiency in Cross-Cultural Communication. Journal of Business Language, 13(2), 33-46.

13. Fraccastoro, V., et al. (2021). The Evolution of Digital Communication in China’s Business Landscape. Marketing Communications Review, 16(3), 150-167.

14. Green, P., et al. (2005). Overcoming Language Barriers in International Business. Journal of International Business Studies, 24(4), 201-214.

15. Hacker, R., et al. (2020). Digital Communication and Customer Engagement in China. Journal of Marketing, 28(3), 123-136.

16. Handy, F. (2020). Timing and Frequency in Cross-Cultural Business Communication. Communication Management Review, 14(3), 65-78.

17. Hoffe, S. (1994). Differences in Business Communication Between China and Western Countries. International Journal of Business Communication, 21(1), 48-62.

18. Hossain, S. and Nur, T.I., 2024. Gear up for safety: Investing in a new automotive future in China. Finance & Accounting Research Journal, 6(5), pp.731-746.

19. Hossain, S., Hossen, M.S.B., Zim, S.K. and El Hebabi, I., 2024. Cultural dynamics and consumer behavior: An in-depth analysis of Chinese preferences for western imported products. GSC Advanced Research and Reviews, 20(3), pp.158-167.

20. Hossain, S. and Hena, H., 2024. The study explores the correlation between cultural influence and community engagement in fostering social safety for tourists.

21. Hossain, S., Akon, T. and Hena, H., 2024. Do creative companies pay higher wages? Micro-level evidence from Bangladesh. Finance & Accounting Research Journal, 6(10), pp.1724-1745.

22. Hossain, S., 2025. Singapore Role in Advancing Global Low-Carbon Economy: A Joint Effort for Sustainability and Climate Commitments. American Journal of Business Science Philosophy (AJBSP), 2(1), pp.36-47.

23. Hult, G. T. M., et al. (2022). The Globalization of Communication in China’s Business Sector. Journal of International Marketing, 27(2), 19-34.

24. Jin, L., & Cortazzi, M. (2006). Language and Culture in Chinese Business Communication. Journal of Asian Business Studies, 15(2), 102-120.

25. Jones, D. (2000). The Importance of Guanxi in Chinese Business Culture. Business & Society Review, 19(2), 95-108.

26. Kellerman, A. (2022). The Shift to Digital Communication in China: Implications for Business. Journal of Digital Marketing, 9(3), 23-40.

27. Kirkman, B. L., et al. (2006). The Role of Hofstede’s Dimensions in Cross-Cultural Business Communication. Journal of International Business Studies, 37(4), 80-99.

28. Li, Z., et al. (2020). Understanding Chinese Cultural Nuances in Consumer Behavior. Asian Marketing Journal, 24(2), 56-70.

29. Lim, L. L., et al. (2021). Overcoming the Language Barrier in Chinese Business Communication. Journal of Cross-Cultural Communication, 12(3), 77-91.

30. Liu, J., et al. (2018). The Role of Trust and Guanxi in Chinese Business Relationships. Journal of Business Ethics, 30(2), 45-59.

31. Luo, Y., & Shenkar, O. (2011). The Influence of Chinese Business Culture on International Negotiations. Negotiation Journal, 27(3), 243-267.

32. Marhefka, C., et al. (2020). Communication Modes in Chinese Business: An Integrated Approach. International Journal of Business Communication, 13(4), 85-101.

33. Nicholls, L. (2020). The Impact of Frequency in Cross-Cultural Customer Interactions. Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology, 8(3), 34-48.

34. Paone, C., & Malott, M. (2008). Overcoming Language Barriers in International Markets. Language & Business Review, 22(1), 23-38.

35. Pillai, R., et al. (2024). Understanding Modern Chinese Consumer Preferences. Journal of Consumer Behavior, 12(1), 58-74.

36. Qi, L., et al. (2020). Effective Communication in Cross-Cultural Business Contexts. Business Communication Quarterly, 56(2), 115-130.

37. Rashkova, M., et al. (2023). Tailoring Communication to Meet the Needs of Chinese Consumers. Journal of International Marketing and Sales, 22(3), 101-115.

38. Searight, K., & Searight, M. (2009). Language and Communication in Cross-Cultural Business. International Journal of Business Linguistics, 8(2), 45-59.

39. Shen, Q., et al. (2022). Real-Time Translation and Communication Efficiency in Business. Journal of Business and Technology, 19(1), 67-81.

40. Sun, Y., et al. (2022). Social Influence and Brand Loyalty in Chinese Consumer Behavior. Journal of Marketing Research, 27(2), 29-42.

41. Su, Y., et al. (2023). Leveraging WeChat for Effective Communication and Customer Engagement. Digital Marketing Journal, 21(3), 111-125.

42. Van, L., et al. (2022). Choosing the Right Mode of Communication in Cross-Cultural Business. Journal of Cross-Cultural Business Studies, 25(4), 143-159.

43. Vieira, R., et al. (2021). The Role of Translation Services in Overcoming Business Communication Barriers. Business Language Review, 18(3), 71-89.

44. Yang, L., et al. (2023). The Power of WeChat: Effective Communication for Businesses in China. Journal of International Business Studies, 32(4), 234-245.

45. Zhang, H., & Zhou, M. (2024). The Importance of Face and Guanxi in Chinese Business Practices. Asian Business Journal, 15(2), 90-103.

46. Zhang, Z., et al. (2023). Adapting Communication Styles for Chinese Consumers. Journal of Business Communication, 11(3), 65-82.

47. Zhou, X., et al. (2023). The Role of AI and Chatbots in Enhancing Customer Communication in China. Journal of Digital Communication, 14(1), 33-49.

Downloads

Published

2025-05-08

How to Cite

Mastering Cross-Cultural Communication: The Key to Successful Business with Foreign Customers in China. (2025). Global Journal of Economic and Finance Research, 2(05), 236-247. https://doi.org/10.55677/GJEFR/01-2025-Vol02E5