Bridging the Gap by Catherine Hua Xiang is aimed at anyone doing business in or with China and examines the complexities of intercultural communication with Chinese people. Covering cultural models, language and communication styles, the book offers practical guidance for overcoming barriers and is a valuable resource for Westerners keen to make meaningful connections with Chinese people, according to Kai Chen.
Intercultural communication is multifaceted, and there is no universal approach to communicating with Chinese. In the early 21st century, as China emerges as a leading global power, a notable gap continues to exist in intercultural communication between Westerners and Chinese, largely fuelled by oversimplifications and stereotypes. Bridging this gap is essential and could be effectively achieved through effective intercultural communication. Scholarly monographs in this field are relatively scarce, with the most recent notable volume entitled Intercultural Communication with China, edited by Fred Dervin and Regis Machart.
Grammar and context in Chinese
Based off practical experience in intercultural communication, Bridging the Gap by Catherine Hua Xiang serves as an essential guide for effective communication with Chinese people. This book is divided into three parts. Part One (Chapters one to five) outlines prevalent challenges in intercultural communication with Chinese, emphasising the key differences in communication styles. This part begins with a comprehensive examination of three fundamental pillars (cultural models, language use, and communication styles), followed by an overview of the Chinese language. It points out for instance, that Chinese utilises a simplified grammatical structure that depends largely on context, in contrast to the intricate verb conjugations and noun declensions characteristic of many Western languages (61).
Chinese communication relies on contextual factors, such as a speaker’s identity, the relationship between speaker and listener, and the broader social setting
Chapter three highlights three key insights: language mirrors our patterns of thought, Eastern and Western modes of thinking differ significantly, and Chinese thought processes are reflected in their communication practices. For example, whereas Westerners tend to adopt an analytical approach, breaking down problems into their fundamental components, Chinese typically favour a holistic perspective, viewing the world as an interconnected whole. The proceeding pages explore the characteristics of Chinese high-context communication. By nature, Chinese communication relies on contextual factors, such as a speaker’s identity, the relationship between speaker and listener, and the broader social setting to interpret the meaning behind words and actions. In digital communication, Chinese users tend to prioritise relationship-building, whereas Westerners often emphasise efficiency and directness.
Chinese philosophy and culture
Part Two (Chapters six-eight) explores the principal tenets and philosophical and cultural values which shape the Chinese communicative practices discussed in Part One. Although the Chinese language is a powerful means of expression, it has its constraints. Effective communication is a two-way transmission co-created by both speaker and listener, and the contextual nature of Chinese expression means that it demands highly active participation. When spoken words carry binding implications for the speaker, the listener must pay close attention to contextual cues and the emotional undertones that accompany the message. It is worth noting that Chinese communicative practices are heavily shaped by philosophical and cultural values deeply rooted in Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, which share several key similarities, including but not limited to, advocating harmony and valuing self-cultivation. Accordingly, Chinese culture is characterised by some key words, particularly the concept of “Renqing”, which emphasises mutual support, reciprocity, and the fulfilment of social responsibilities to sustain harmonious relationships (160).
Although specific contexts may differ, the fundamental goal remains unchanged: to establish lasting mutual respect and trust with Chinese colleagues.
Part Two (Chapters six-eight) explores the principal tenets and philosophical and cultural values which shape the Chinese communicative practices discussed in Part One. Although the Chinese language is a powerful means of expression, it has its constraints. Effective communication is a two-way transmission co-created by both speaker and listener, and the contextual nature of Chinese expression means that it demands highly active participation. When spoken words carry binding implications for the speaker, the listener must pay close attention to contextual cues and the emotional undertones that accompany the message. It is worth noting that Chinese communicative practices are heavily shaped by philosophical and cultural values deeply rooted in Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, which share several key similarities, including but not limited to, advocating harmony and valuing self-cultivation. Accordingly, Chinese culture is characterised by some key words, particularly the concept of “Renqing”, which emphasises mutual support, reciprocity, and the fulfilment of social responsibilities to sustain harmonious relationships (160).
Addressing barriers to intercultural communication
Part Three (Chapters nine to fourteen) begins with addressing seven barriers to successful intercultural communication at individual level:, attitude, perception, stereotypes, interpretation, cultural shock, linguistic competence and experience. As the author suggests, it is crucial in intercultural communication to be open and curious. Hua Xiang offers a self-assessment checklist (201), which covers eight key words, that is, openness, knowledge, skills of interpreting and relating, skills of discovery and interaction, critical cultural awareness, reflection, feedback and continual improvement. The following pages present several broad strategies for adapting to different communication styles: 1) paying attention to others’ verbal and nonverbal cues to understand their communication styles; 2) adapting to different styles based on context and cultural differences; 3) giving full attention to the speaker’s perspective; 4) establishing trust and connection through shared interests and understanding.
In the case of enhancing effectiveness communication with Chinese business colleagues, the author suggests four tactics to take into account: being patient and respectful, gaining knowledge of cultural references, investing in Chinese language learning, and leveraging local expertise (i.e., collaborating with local professionals or employing individuals familiar with the local market). Although specific contexts may differ, the fundamental goal remains unchanged: to establish lasting mutual respect and trust with Chinese colleagues.
Drawing on over a decade of interaction with people from varied cultural backgrounds, the author continually deepens her learning and skills on the subject under study, which greatly contributes to the book’s success. Bridging the Gap is an insightful and practical guide for readers interested in engage meaningfully and effectively with Chinese people, or those who are more generally interested in linguistic and cultural differences and ways to navigate them. If readers are working or living in China, they will find the book helpful for avoiding cultural miscommunication and fostering effective communications with Chinese stakeholders. The hope is that the author will release a new edition of the book in the foreseeable future.
Note: This review gives the views of the author and not the position of the LSE Review of Books blog, nor of the London School of Economics and Political Science.
Image: JaneVae on Shutterstock
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