Sage-Tips

Do I need to know Chinese to work in China?

The real answer is a bit more nuanced, but the simple answer is: yes, you can undoubtedly work in China without speaking Chinese. Well, the fact is, most jobs for expats in China do not require you to speak Chinese.

Will knowing Chinese help me get a job?

Being able to speak Mandarin Chinese cannot directly bring you a job unless you’re an interpreter. However, being able to speak the Chinese language can truly expand the employment pool for you. There would be more available positions for you when you’re equipped with Mandarin-speaking skills.

Is finding a job in China hard?

No it’s fairly easy, one can get a job on China Jobs web sites but maybe not to your liking. I would suggest entering China with advance searching of locations where your expertise lies. Get a tourist visa first and than ask employer to get you a work Visa, so you will not get in trouble with China Government.

What jobs are in high demand in China?

The Top 10 Careers for Foreigners in China (Expat Jobs)

• Teaching. If you meet a random foreigner walking the streets of any given city in China, there is a very big chance he/she may be a teacher.
• Trade/Commerce. Yiwu International Expo Center.
• IT/Tech.
• Writing/Media.
• Marketing.
• Engineering.
• Managerial Jobs.
• Hotels and Tourism.

Is learning Chinese beneficial?

Learning Chinese not only gives you an advantage of speaking another language, but also allows you to gain a broader understanding of one of the world’s oldest living civilizations.

Can a foreigner get a job in China?

There are unlimited number of job opportunities in China for foreigners especially in first tier cities. The number of workers increased from 180.000 to 950.000 since 1996.

What is it like to work in China?

Chinese workplaces tend to have long working hours, however, which can sometimes seem frustratingly inefficient. In many offices, staff religiously clock off at midday for a 90 minute lunch break, and take naps throughout the afternoon, but then stay late into the evening to get all their work done.

Is it possible to work in China without learning Mandarin?

Many expats work in China without learning Mandarin. This is more feasible in the big cities such as Beijing and Shanghai, but even in those places you’re likely to run into difficulty if you only speak English.

What can you do with a degree in Chinese?

A number work in jobs that are reserved for Americans but require proficiency in Chinese. About a third of our interviewees, for instance, currently work for or have worked for the U.S. government. Such positions often involve doing research on Greater China for the State Department or Congressional committees.

Is it worth learning to read the Chinese culture?

For those planning to work or travel in China, learning to read the culture correctly is a worthwhile investment (Von Weltzien Hoivik, 2007). This learning is often impeded by false assumptions and stereotypes. The following is a list of key points companies may want to consider before venturing into the Middle Kingdom.