Guanxi

Guanxi (Chinese关系/关系) refers to the network of personal relations, of whose work in China hardly a decision remains unaffected. Contracts and agreements are seen in many cases only as a guideline, may be waived in case of doubt. Guanxi is a complex word. In the dictionary it is translated as compound relationship.

Guanxi relationships are not based on connections between groups of people or institutions, but always on relations between individuals. Existence to another person good relationships, contacts are made to other people from his relationship structure. Typically, a promoter is, however, only make people known to each other, which he trusted, because he stands up with his face. The relationship of trust must be built up over the long term, however, starts at a higher level.

The relationship network is used hardly noticeable among the Chinese for foreigners. Relationships can also result if two people have lived in the same village or studied at the same university. Guanxi are usually available in a reciprocal relationship. Who asks for a favor, must eventually yield a return. The time plays an important role. Moreover, they must be constantly maintained.

Mutual favors are the decisive factor for obtaining the guanxi network. To refuse a return, is considered an unforgivable insult. The more you ask of someone, the more one is that of guilty. Guanxi can be considered as an endless cycle of favors.

Chinese share very exactly as your relatives, friends or strangers, in order to assess the degree of mutual trust and mutual assistance.

" The exploitation of relationships is a science in itself, you have to pull time and circumstances into consideration and titrate the fire properly. As in a balance: sometime it is eaten, you have to hold back a little so it is filled up at the crucial moment, and of course you have to drauflegen what every now and again. "