Your instincts about China might be harming your goals — here’s how to recalibrate.
Gene J. Hsu spent 20+ years inside Chinese interpersonal dynamics. His books and weekly insights help Westerners see what’s really happening in the minds of their Chinese counterparts. Learn to build real Guanxi relationships and gain the awareness needed for better outcomes.
Speak Less, Guanxi More — My latest publication, all 114 pages as a PDF and Flipbook, no cost (for a limited time).
While most China experts focus on explaining differences, my approach translates Chinese psychology into actionable strategies using language and culture, helping you create breakthrough communication patterns so you avoid getting stuck in those frustrating, circular conversations.
The Chinese Honeymoon Period
It doesn’t end. It evolves.
Every new relationship in China begins with a honeymoon — a phase where your counterparts disproportionately demonstrate goodwill through praise, catering assistance, and sharing inside information. Most Westerners mistake this for trust. It isn’t. It’s a test. For those who understand Guanxi, the honeymoon never ends — it deepens into rituals and repeating patterns of reciprocal exchange that define every exchange that follows.
The Chinese Honeymoon Period maps the ten cultural concepts that separate those who thrive in China from those who never understood why they didn’t.
Listen to Chapter 1 | Guanxi EXPOSED beyond its honeymoon period perceptions | The first essential Chinese cultural concept, GUANXI (关系), is explained through my firsthand experiences with how Chinese people think, make decisions, and evaluate trust.
China Myth Podcast (Free Listens)
Full Audiobook on Audible
Speak Less, Guanxi More
A reflection journal for anyone wanting to create a new reality in China.
Most professionals try harder to explain themselves in China. They clarify, justify, and repeat — only for the frustration to increase when their Chinese counterparts respond poorly.
This illustrated journal shows you how speaking less is a better way forward, and how the Guanxi engine really works. Reflect. Practice. Apply.
What Do You Say To A Friend From China?
Raise culturally curious kids. What Do You Say To A Friend From China? series introduces young readers to Chinese culture, language, and friendships through illustrated stories and their first cross-cultural lessons.
