Introduction

Coaching plans are structured frameworks within businesses aimed at facilitating the development of associates in their respective roles. This paper focuses on designing a coaching strategy for U.S. food company executives preparing for assignments in East Asia, particularly China, where they will lead multicultural teams in a new division. None of these executives have prior experience with foreign assignments. The objective is to outline a coaching plan covering various aspects such as business culture, leadership and coaching approaches, interview questions, and interview transcripts for both male and female executives.

China Business Cultural Norms

In China, business cultural norms differ significantly from those in the United States. One crucial aspect is the concept of “Guanxi,” which involves presenting opportunities and exchanging personal favors. While common in China, this practice may be perceived as favoritism or bribery in American culture. Additionally, Chinese business deals typically involve a reserved and calm demeanor, contrasting with the more assertive and celebratory approach often seen in American contexts. Other elements such as gift-giving, punctuality, greetings, attire, and conversational styles also contribute to respecting Chinese business culture.

Leadership Approach

The chosen leadership approach is transformational leadership, which focuses on empowering associates to challenge their potential. This approach comprises four key characteristics: idealized influence, inspirational motivation, intellectual stimulation, and individual consideration. Utilizing transformational leadership aims to alleviate any anxieties among the executives regarding their new assignments and foster confidence in navigating challenges.

PSY FPX 6710 Assessment 3 East Assignment Coaching Plan

Coaching Approach

The coaching approach integrates technology, particularly remote coaching, to facilitate communication and updates. Remote coaching via platforms like Zoom offers flexibility and fosters collaboration among team members across different locations. Additionally, multicultural cross-training ensures that executives are familiar with Chinese business practices, fostering effective working relationships and cultural understanding.

Interview Questions

Interview questions are designed to assess candidates’ understanding of diversity, inclusion, leadership, and cultural sensitivity. Open-ended questions prompt responses based on experience, ensuring alignment with business objectives and cultural considerations.

Transcripts

Transcripts illustrate interactions between American executives and a Chinese manager, highlighting cultural etiquette and professional exchanges.

Test for Understanding

Implementing a 360 Feedback system enables comprehensive performance and behavioral analysis, involving input from all employees. This approach supports cultural adaptation and ensures adherence to quality management standards.

Conclusion

The East assignment coaching plan integrates research findings to develop effective strategies for preparing executives for assignments in China. Despite gender disparities in Chinese corporate culture, transformational coaching aims to equip all executives for success, emphasizing the importance of leadership and cultural understanding.

References

Burrous, T. C. (2021). A Comparison Study on E-Coaching and Face-to-Face Coaching. Proquest, 1-120.

Govindarajan, A. K. (2003). Global Strategy and the Organization. Wiley, 1-224.

John Hall, S. J. (2002). Transformational Leadership: The Transformation of Managers and Associates. Sage , 1-3.

KLAGGE, J. (1995). 360-DEGREE SOCIOMETRIC FEEDBACK FOR INDIVIDUAL AND ORGANIZATIONAL CHANGE. JSTOR, 352-366.

Kyoung-Ah Nam, Y. C. (2013). West Meets East? Identifying the Gap in Current Cross-Cultural Training Research. Sage Journals, 35-57.

Li, J. Y. (2017). Women in Leadership in China: Past, Present, and Future. Research Gate, 1-18.

Lu, L.-T. (2012). Guanxi and Renqing: The Roles of Two Cultural Norms in Chinese Business. Proquest, 466-475.

Tsui, R. X. (2006). Organizational Culture in China: An Analysis of Culture Dimensions and Culture Types. Research Gate, 345-376.

PSY FPX 6710 Assessment 3 East Assignment Coaching Plan

Xiao, T. (2021). A Comparative Study on the Differences of Chinese and American Business Etiquette Between China. Atlantis Press, 1-7.