In other countries, I do believe hierarchy plays a certain role but it may not be as significant as it is in China. I see all of my colleagues from that my N. American colleagues call each others' by their christen or first names directly and many lots of companies have create an open-space office environment where everyone has the same sized workspace for work with larger common public areas.

Privacy:
Age, marriage marital status, and salary are the common conversational topics in the Chinese workplace. Although people working for international companies may not inquire, the majority still do. By contrast, people with a N. American cultural background appreciate privacy a lot. Asking too very personal questions is considered as rude and offensive.

Let me know your thoughts. :)

Comments: Very interesting observations.

I have never worked in a business setting but I think you are right about the North American work culture. It is true that an open space environment is important but this is a recent trend. Just ten years ago, the workspace environment was not so open. Also, in North America, people are starting to be more receptive about age and marital status but these are not very important when it comes to work ethics and etiquettes. The salary is never asked nor revealed. As the popular saying goes, "It's none of your business." :D

Good work!

Culture Differences in the Workplace (American vs. Chinese)

Let me to share some of my thoughts on the starting with Chinese business culture and the way of doing business, and compare it with my observations on how people behave in the North American culture.

Business Card:
The Chinese love to exchange business cards and normally they we present their card as part of their a self-introduction when having the first conversation with a stranger in a business environment. People from North Americans, on the other hand, only leave their business card with the to person with whom they want to further their business relationship. know much deeper and doing business together.

Drinking:
If you are thinking of doing business in China, get ready to drink a lot! The motto, "No drink then and no business" is somewhat this is true, especially when your clients is a state-owned or a privately- owned company. The Chinese enjoy "forcing" or "persuading" others to drink until they you are drunk. It is a great way to demonstrate the client's your commitment of doing business with the Chinese. In my limited experiences, I have never seen a similar a situation happen inN. American business culture.

Hierarchy / Status power  
People from China, in general, respect hierarchy. You can easily tell who is the big boss among a group of people. S/he is the first one to who gets into a waiting car, gets to sits in the best seat, has the largest office room, and is called by their family name along with a plus title to show their status in an organization. Subordinates prefer to follow instructions given by their managers and do not object offer up "objections".