For individuals with a profound history of laboring on foreign shores, embarking upon the pursuit of an enriching sales manager position within the intricate tapestry of China may initially appear to be a formidable endeavor. However, it is imperative to acknowledge that with judicious deliberation and methodical strategizing, such an aspiration is not only within reach but eminently attainable. My personal odyssey, which culminated in securing the distinguished mantle of an international sales manager in the bustling metropolis of Shanghai several years ago, stands as a poignant testament to the profound significance and fulfillment that can be derived from such a career milestone.
From my perspective, the crux of the matter hinges upon a trifecta of paramount principles, the embodiment of which, I opine, is indispensable for triumph in this endeavor. Firstly, the judicious harnessing of one’s extant proficiencies and expertise constitutes the foundational bedrock upon which success is predicated. Secondly, an exhaustive and meticulous examination of prospective employers, characterized by a profound level of scrutiny and discernment, stands as an imperative prelude to any prospective endeavor. Thirdly, and arguably the most formidable of the trio, is the unwavering resolve to wholeheartedly embrace the Herculean task of assimilating within a novel cultural milieu. These exhortations, while facile in enunciation, admittedly transpire as herculean feats in execution. However, I am acutely cognizant that my steadfast adherence to these three tenets metamorphosed my initial disorientation into a state of thriving, both professionally and communally, which serves as a testament to their efficacy.
When I first started applying to jobs, I asked myself – what do I genuinely have to offer Chinese companies as an outsider? The language barrier felt intimidating. But when I focused on my decade of sales knowledge instead of my (still very shaky!) Mandarin, things clicked. I had led teams, exceeded targets, developed marketing strategies in complicated regulatory environments not unlike China’s.
I realized that if I positioned my experience clearly, organizations in China struggling to expand abroad would see my value add. When framing your background, be ultra specific about exactly how it will make you an asset. Once I interviewed with a few companies, most didn’t view my foreignness as a limitation at all – it was an opportunity.
Vetting employers thoroughly was clutch too. Having leadership that understands the adjustment challenges facing foreigners and actively works to integrate you makes all the difference. The company I chose had multiple expats on staff already who raved about how welcoming and helpful colleagues were during onboarding. They partnered new hires with culture mentors and held regular roundtables exploring differences.
I immediately felt like part of a supportive community, allowing me to shift my focus to delivering results instead of second guessing cultural norms. It was exactly why adapting became exponentially easier over time. Immersing myself in the values and work styles of my new coworkers not only led to better job performance but revealed whole-hearted, funny, bright humans behind interactions I didn’t initially grasp.
Did I still massively screw up socially on occasions early on? Absolutely. But every misstep taught me something useful about the society around me. My first presentation to our China leadership team was an epic fail – too direct, lacked nuance, skipped formalities integral to them feeling respected. I pivoted hard afterwards based on their thoughtful critiques. Six months later, that same leadership team awarded me the company’s top sales honor after I led our division to a record-breaking quarter.
If you’re an experienced sales leader considering China but anxious you’ll stall out culturally – don’t self reject! Lean into what makes you different. Find an employer who’ll advocate for you. And give yourself permission to make mistakes but also the grace to evolve. Does that mindset guarantee smooth sailing every day abroad? Definitely not. But it does foster adventure, breakthroughs, indelible memories. Three years later, that whirlwind role still feels like the best decision of my career.
I know everyone’s experience working overseas differs. But I hope curling up with my tales of sales success, culture shock, boss faux pas, local food triumphs, and more paints a bit of a picture for what could await in China. If you ever want to chat more or have additional questions, would absolutely love to pay it forward. Wishing you only courage as you weigh your options – you’ve got this!