Learning from China's business leaders: lessons for troubled times

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to promote an expanded two‐way dialog between Chinese and Western leaders and executives which recognizes that “wisdom” can flow in both directions.

Design/methodology/approach

Interviews were undertaken with three Chinese executives and analyzed against a model of performance excellence.

Findings

An understanding of some of the similarities and differences of Western and Chinese business practices and a conclusion that there are lessons for Western businesses to learn.

Research limitations/implications

The work involved interviews with only three Chinese executives and thus represents a tiny sample.

Practical implications

Illustrates some of the practices that might be worth considering by the West as we climb out of the current economic depression and re‐focus business efforts for a longer‐term future.

Originality/value

The paper adopts a novel approach of analyzing interview outcomes against a reference model. The core value is, however, in highlighting the benefits that might arise from extended dialog.

Citation

Tuttle, T.C., Shengchang, C., Heap, J.P. and Yan, T. (2010), "Learning from China's business leaders: lessons for troubled times", International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, Vol. 59 No. 3, pp. 274-299. https://doi.org/10.1108/17410401011023591