| This article defines and explores the concept of | | | | almost as underground tunnels and paths that connect |
| `guanxi` as it pertains to Chinese culture. Perhaps one | | | | a person to various other locations without the scrutiny |
| of the most difficult concepts for people new to China, | | | | of others. These networks serve very important |
| understanding how the Chinese view relationships is | | | | functions for both the individuals and organizations in |
| crucial to understanding Chinese people. Understanding | | | | China. Of course, in its simplest and purest forms, |
| `guanxi` will help one better assimilate into the Chinese | | | | guanxi can also mean friendship, trust and willingness |
| culture. | | | | to help each other. However, this is one reason |
| One of the words that foreigners new to the TESOL | | | | westerners have trouble understanding the line |
| Course, do not try to translate is `guanxi`. It is such an | | | | between friendship and guanxi. In China, it is almost |
| important part of Chinese life that we all must try to | | | | impossible for a `true friend` to refuse the request of |
| understand it. However, any English translation cannot | | | | another `true friend`. Once that level of friendship has |
| capture its full meaning because we do not have a | | | | been reached, it is taken for granted that the friend will |
| concept quite like it. | | | | help if asked. The challenge westerners face is |
| It is too simple to call guanxi, `relationships`, `networking`, | | | | determining who is that kind of friend and what is |
| or `connections` because all of these things are basic | | | | simply a favor that needs to be repaid later. It is also a |
| fibers of the Chinese culture. People rely on them not | | | | delicate balance to know when you are imposing on |
| only for getting things done, but also for protection, | | | | someone and when they will be insulted if you do not |
| security and support. Networks of guanxi can be seen | | | | ask for their help. |