Bridging the gap: An introduction to intercultural communication with China

In the globalised business landscape, effective communication across cultural boundaries is pivotal, with a particular emphasis on China’s significant role in the global economy.

This presentation delves into the critical aspects of intercultural communicative competence required for successful business interactions with Chinese counterparts.

The session opens with an illustrative anecdote highlighting the subtleties and challenges of cross-cultural communication, setting the stage for an in-depth examination of various applied linguistics theories and strategies. These include Cooperative Communicative Competence, Linguistic Politeness Theory, Communicative Accommodation Theory, Rapport Management Theory, Conversational Involvement Strategies, and the SPEAKING Model. These concepts collectively offer a robust framework for navigating intercultural interactions effectively.

At the heart of the discussion is the concept of Intercultural Communicative Competence, particularly as it relates to understanding and bridging the cultural and communicative gaps with China. The presentation underscores the pivotal role of language as not just a means of communication but as a reflection of cultural values and thought processes.

Participants will be introduced to linguistic techniques for building rapport, understanding context, and engaging with Chinese business cultures more deeply. The focus is on developing a comprehensive skill set that goes beyond language proficiency to include cultural immersion, respect, and the ability to engage in meaningful business dialogues.

This talk is essential for anyone looking to enhance their ability to effectively communicate and do business with China, offering insights into the complex interplay between language, culture, and business practices. It aims to equip attendees with the knowledge and tools for fostering successful cross-cultural business relationships.

Dr Catherine Xiang

Dr Catherine Xiang is an established author and applied linguist with rich experience in the higher education as well as high profile consultancy industry to businesses that wish to engage with China. Originally from Shanghai, she is skilled in intercultural communication, translation, foreign languages, lecturing, TV and public speaking.

She is Head of East Asian Languages at LSE, Programme Director for BSc International Relations and Chinese; as well as UK Director for LSE Confucius Institute for Business London. She was awarded several LSE Education Excellence Awards and the title of ‘LSE Education Innovator’ for her contribution to LSE education. She developed the first Edex course for LSE on intercultural communication at work place.

In addition to her roles at LSE, she is an executive member of the British Chinese Language Teaching Society, a school governor and chief examiner of Diploma in Translation at the Charted Institute of Linguists. Her publications include ‘Mastering Chinese – a Complete Textbook for Beginners’, ‘Audio visual Media in Language Education’ and ‘Trends and Developments for the Future of Language Education in Higher Education’, ‘China Ready – Chinese for Tourism and Hospitality’ and ‘Trends and Developments for the Future of Language Education in Higher Education’ and the latest ‘Bridging the Gap – An Introduction to Intercultural Communication’. During the pandemic, she launched her own YouTube channel “字 espresso” , teaching the relationship between Chinese characters and words.

Catherine's new book 'Bridging the Gap - An Introduction to Intercultural Communication with China' will be available to buy after the talk and there will be an opportunity to have a chat with the author and get your copy signed.

About the series

Manchester Confucius Institute public talks are free, informal and informative lectures aimed at anyone with an interest in Chinese culture and language.

Find out more about the Manchester Confucius Institute >>