6 Things I Learnt From My Recent Trip to China
9 days ago
·
9 days ago
·I’m sure most of you know by now that I recently travelled to China for some exciting business ventures. This trip was a whirlwind of learning and connection, and it really opened my eyes to how much you can gain when you approach things with curiosity and an open heart.
From navigating supplier relationships to embracing cultural differences, I’ve come back with so many valuable insights that I just had to share with you all. Here are six things I learnt that made this journey so enriching—not just for my business but for me personally as well.
1. How to Build Relationships Through Understanding
At first, Chinese suppliers can seem blunt or distant, almost like they don’t want to engage. However, once you take the initiative to understand their processes and culture, real collaboration begins. Showing genuine curiosity and respect for their way of working can break down barriers and pave the way for lasting partnerships.
2. How to Ask Questions and Stay Curious
When faced with seemingly rigid terms like high MOQs or extended lead times, don’t take them at face value. Approach every conversation as a learning opportunity—ask about the rationale behind those numbers. Why is the MOQ 3000? Why the 50-day production timeline? These questions can help you better understand their perspective and even open the door to negotiations.
3. You Have Value, Even as a Small Client
Even if you’re a small player, don’t underestimate your potential value. Building a relationship is about more than just transactions; it’s about sharing stories. Once I opened up about my own community and the passion for creation that drives my work, I found suppliers more willing to engage and adapt to my needs.
4. The Power of Small Gestures
Never underestimate the power of respect and thoughtful gifting. I brought along Aussie flags, Tim Tams, and cute koala souvenirs to share with my suppliers. After our discussions, the goodwill from these simple gifts resulted in lower MOQs, free samples, and a stronger bond. Some even went above and beyond to get samples sent to my hotel quickly before I left the country. Sometimes, a small gesture can go a long way in building trust.
5. English as a second language.
I always encouraged their efforts in English, and learnt that small language encouragement can go a long way. I made it a point to acknowledge any effort made to speak English, even if it was just a thumbs-up. Despite their modesty, it boosted their confidence and helped foster better communication. Using tools like Google Translate was helpful, but offering praise for their efforts was even more powerful.
6. Appreciate the Unsung Heroes
It’s easy to overlook the people who make our travels smoother—the hotel staff, the security guard, or the shuttle bus driver. But a simple “hello” or “thank you” can mean a lot to them. I gave my security guard a small koala pin as a token of appreciation, and he took a photo and shared it on WeChat. A little recognition can go a long way in building goodwill.
From navigating supplier relationships to embracing cultural differences, I’ve come back with so many valuable insights that I just had to share with you all. Here are six things I learnt that made this journey so enriching—not just for my business but for me personally as well.
1. How to Build Relationships Through Understanding
At first, Chinese suppliers can seem blunt or distant, almost like they don’t want to engage. However, once you take the initiative to understand their processes and culture, real collaboration begins. Showing genuine curiosity and respect for their way of working can break down barriers and pave the way for lasting partnerships.
2. How to Ask Questions and Stay Curious
When faced with seemingly rigid terms like high MOQs or extended lead times, don’t take them at face value. Approach every conversation as a learning opportunity—ask about the rationale behind those numbers. Why is the MOQ 3000? Why the 50-day production timeline? These questions can help you better understand their perspective and even open the door to negotiations.
3. You Have Value, Even as a Small Client
Even if you’re a small player, don’t underestimate your potential value. Building a relationship is about more than just transactions; it’s about sharing stories. Once I opened up about my own community and the passion for creation that drives my work, I found suppliers more willing to engage and adapt to my needs.
4. The Power of Small Gestures
Never underestimate the power of respect and thoughtful gifting. I brought along Aussie flags, Tim Tams, and cute koala souvenirs to share with my suppliers. After our discussions, the goodwill from these simple gifts resulted in lower MOQs, free samples, and a stronger bond. Some even went above and beyond to get samples sent to my hotel quickly before I left the country. Sometimes, a small gesture can go a long way in building trust.
5. English as a second language.
I always encouraged their efforts in English, and learnt that small language encouragement can go a long way. I made it a point to acknowledge any effort made to speak English, even if it was just a thumbs-up. Despite their modesty, it boosted their confidence and helped foster better communication. Using tools like Google Translate was helpful, but offering praise for their efforts was even more powerful.
6. Appreciate the Unsung Heroes
It’s easy to overlook the people who make our travels smoother—the hotel staff, the security guard, or the shuttle bus driver. But a simple “hello” or “thank you” can mean a lot to them. I gave my security guard a small koala pin as a token of appreciation, and he took a photo and shared it on WeChat. A little recognition can go a long way in building goodwill.
By focusing on relationship-building, cultural respect, and small but meaningful gestures, I was able to turn what could have been just a transactional trip into a genuinely enriching experience.
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