Global Graduates: How China Can Boost UK Graduate Employability

Global Graduates: How China Can Boost UK Graduate Employability

Contents of session Contents Overview of CRCC Asia Overview of China Explanation of an internship in China Chinese Business Culture; Guanxi, Mianzi and Dining etiquette Overview of Study Abroad and International Internships The benefits of China for students and universities. Examples of China built into UK and US University degrees. Learning Outcomes Understand what an internship in China comprises of Realise the value of an internship in China Gain an initial understanding of Chinese business culture Examine how universities can further the international outlook of their students

About CRCC Asia Our Values and Our Aim CRCC Asia believes in maintaining the highest level of commitment to its core values: A commitment to people A commitment to professionalism A commitment to global partnership We believe in a global future and we are committed to building international connections that will shape tomorrow s business landscape. CRCC Asia specializes in connecting China and the global community through China Internships, Study Abroad Programs and Consulting services. As the leading provider of Internships in China, we work with the best companies in Beijing and Shanghai to provide students and graduates the opportunity to further their personal and professional development in a dynamic international setting. All of our Programs allow participants to gain an insight into Chinese business culture, meet industry leaders andbuild business networks.

About CRCC Asia In The Wider Community CRCC Asia Winners of The British Business Award 2012 The Entrepreneur of the Year Award recognises CRCC Asia s continuing achievements in enterprise and successful endeavours in China. Previous winners include Standard Chartered, Unilever and Arup. CRCC Asia Winners of The Cathay Pacific China Business Award 2010 The New Horizons Award. Previous winners have included SMD Holdings, B&Q, Arup, Prudential, Cherry Valley Farms and Rolls- Royce. CRCC Asia partnered with the UK government to run The Study China Programme, Easter 2012 CRCC Asia chosen as placement provider for 50 UK students to do a fully funded internship & study program in Beijing.

China Overview - Population and People Every year, students from around the world head to China to study or take up internships. The number of UK students who seize the opportunities in China s major cities is small but fast growing. Some China Facts: China s population: 1.3 Billion people. The population is not evenly distributed. 91.9% are Han Chinese. The remainder are ethnic minorities mainly concentrated in border areas (e.g.: South West). Ethnic Minorities more populous in the Western parts of China (Xinjiang and Tibet).

Geopolitical Landscape of China Four divisions: West Central Coastal North East 30 Provinces Huge populations of their own E.g.: Anhui pop. 64m Culturally differences among cities/regions Importance of local government Large regional inequality

We want trade with China. As much of it as we can get. Prime Minister David Cameron, 2011.

Key Sectors in China Business Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Chemical) Finance Information Technology Legal Logistics Marketing, PR & Advertising Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare

CRCC Asia China Intern Market

Examples of Differences in Chinese Business Mianzi (Face) Mianzi is an essential cultural concept that must be understood before going to China. Roughly translates as respect in Western societies. Core component of Chinese society that should not be underestimated. How to give Face, who to give it to, and, how you might receive Face. Superiors Toasting Gambei Business Cards Dining seating arrangement Answering questions

Exercise: Maintaining Mianzi 1. How do you find the Shanghai pollution? As with any big city there is always pollution. Shanghai is no different. 2. Most Chinese people speak very bad English, it must be difficult communicating? I don t speak any Mandarin so I m glad the Chinese can help me by speaking in English. 3. Why are there are so many poor people in China? Every country has poor people, but China has done really well over recent years in rapidly reducing the number of poor. 4. I bet your salary is really high, you must be rich? My salary is not high in the UK and we have much higher costs ofliving so I m definitely not rich!

Guanxi (relationships) The system of social networks and influential relationships thatfacilitate business and other dealings.

Guanxi: Why is it so important? Guanxi is essential in working with the Chinese. In China, most business is done through relationships and networks. It's not what you know, it's who you know, To do business, we must first be friends Business cards Over time, you will learn who knows who, who owes who favours, and you will build your own Guanxi. Those who invest in building long term relationships with the Chinese have a higher chance of success and are more positive about their position in the Chinese market - repeated contact is worth investing in.

Communication Differences The Chinese often never refuse a request, no matter how difficult or non-profitable it may appear. Since there is a tendency to say "yes" to questions so that you do not lose face, the way you phrase a question is crucial. It is better to ask, "When can we expect our results?" than "Can we expect our results on Friday?" since this question requires a direct response. Do not get frustrated by a more lengthy conversation that may turn out to be a refusal in disguise.

Benefits of a China Experience for Students Enhances graduate employability Increases cultural sensitivity and awareness Creates the ability to build strong relationships in the work place Gain key transferable and industry specific skills International Networking Skills Increase knowledge of International Business Showcase to future employers commitment to understanding the international business environment Demonstrate adaptability and initiative Witness first hand the impact China is having on a global level Exhibit analytical skills

Benefits of a China Experience for Universities Prepares students for future career and boosts graduate employability Adds to a comprehensive degree program Adds an extra dimension to the University as an environment that promotes international study Increases opportunities for exchange Enhances university reputation both in the UK and in China- great way to attract potential students A more practical in-depth addition to a Study Abroad Program- Study Abroad + Researchers are more likely to have a connection with Chinese Universities in the future as funds are poured into Asian universities and research cooperation increases. Internships in China can link universities internationally.

Example Case Study of Mutual Benefit Alice Goss Was a student at St. Martins -University of The Arts, London, studying Advertising and Marketing Interned for Christies Auction House in Beijing for 2 months Based on the internship, Alice completed her dissertation on theluxury goods market in China. Carried out primary research during the internship. Upon return Alice was employed by Quintessentially in London-based on the internship in China.

Study Abroad Programme and Internships Often viewed in competition but can be seen as complimentary: - University Study Abroad Plus Scheme - April 2012 Study China Programme Practical experience as well as academic. Greater cultural exposure. Gain employability skills. Arguably more challenging but more rewarding- can pave the way for a future career abroad. Increases confidence and networking ability.

Graduate Market Statistics According to research conducted on behalf of the British Council, when recruiting new employees, 79% of employers see global awareness as more important than a degree. Recent High Fliers Survey has shown there are on average 52 applications for every graduate job which is a 25% rise since 2009 The employment rate for new graduates across all sectors is 61.8% China-Generation UK China-Generation UK is a British Council run project that aims to encourage and support more young people from the UK to gain international experience in China. Through internship programmes and academic scholarships, Generation UK is creating more opportunities in China for British students. CRCC Asiaare delighted to be a a part of the new British Council initiative, part-funded by the UK government aiming to increase graduate employability.

Examples of CRCC Asia University Partners Kings College London Richmond The American International University, London University College London University of Texas at Austin University of Western Australia Bristol University UCLAN University of Arkansas

CRCC Asia Case Studies Emma: Trainee Solicitor, Linklaters My CRCCinternship provided me with a fantastic introduction to the Chinese legal sphere, allowing me todevelop bothskillsand contacts whichproved to beimmenselyvaluable. As a result of my experiences, I have been inspired to takesecondment opportunities in China with my current firm and to focusmy career towards Asia in the long-term. Vineet: ICT employee at Skysoul, Shanghai Initially, I came here thinking I will be here for about 2 months, but to my surprise, after my performance evaluation by the company, I was offered a full time position as the company s IT Security Architect. This has opened up a whole new world ofopportunities which expands to horizons beyond borders. I am currently working in Shanghai and my adventures here have just begun. Sophie: Analyst, Accenture On my return from China I was quickly accepted on to a graduate scheme at management consultants Accenture. Coming back from China, you ve got this one thing on your CV that makes you stand out it shows you have some get up and go.

China Internship I Program 2013 Participants

China Internship Program What s s Included Guaranteed Internship in the sector of your choice English Speaking Supervisor Business Visa Processing and Support Pre-departure Assistance Airport Pickup on Arrival International Hotel Accommodation Induction Course & Cultural Training Formal Welcome Banquet Welcome Pack + SIMCard + City Guide Weekly Mandarin Lessons 24-hour Support and Guidance Social Events & Business Seminar Volunteer Charity Day-Trip Networking Opportunities Membership of Alumni Network CRCC Asia Certificate

China Internship Program Partner Companies

Summary China can boost UK Employability China is the world s most populated country, with almost one-fifth of the world s population. It s an economic powerhouse, the world s biggest exporter and second largest importer, and is increasingly important in the international arena. Global businesses and organisations are keen to engage with China at every level -so you can be sure that an experience in China will be highly valued byemployers. Spending time in China will give students valuable real-life experience of the world s most dynamic and fastest developing country.

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