36 Key Aspects and 49 Details of Chinese-Style Management

Author: Wang Yongfeng
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-06-01
Features: Peace brings contentment
In traditional Chinese culture, harmony is emphasized, and to achieve societal unity and stability, "peace" must be prioritized first. The Chinese language often links "peace" with "joy," as without peace, joy cannot be attained. Therefore, management activities must align with the psychological tendencies of the Chinese people.
During the Three Kingdoms period, after the Battle of Guandu, Cao Cao's army was tallying their spoils and discovered a bundle of letters. These letters were secretly written by some in the capital and within Cao's camp to Yuan Shao. Cao Cao glanced through them and had them read aloud one by one. Most were flattering Yuan Shao, with some even expressing their desire to leave Cao's camp and join Yuan Shao. Cao Cao's advisors were furious and suggested arresting and severely punishing those who wrote the letters. Hearing this, Cao Cao smiled faintly and said, "Burn all these letters." Everyone present was stunned. Cao Cao explained, "At that time, Yuan Shao's power was so formidable that even I felt I could not protect myself, let alone others?"
After this incident became known, those who had secretly corresponded with Yuan Shao felt a heavy burden lifted from their hearts. Others also admired Cao Cao's magnanimity and tolerance, willing to serve under his command, which quickly stabilized morale within his camp. How profound this wisdom is! If Cao Cao had followed his advisors' misguided advice and unleashed a massacre, what kind of outcome would have ensued?
Drawing lessons from the past and applying them to the present, modern leaders must use less rigor and more tolerance to keep people close to them. Of course, this tolerance is not without principle. If such tolerance hinders the achievement of goals or creates significant obstacles in work, leaders must then take decisive measures to eliminate risks. Towards those who oppose them, whether their views are right or wrong, leaders should remain kind and sincere, working together with them—a clear sign of magnanimity.
In today's society dominated by large corporations, the greatest problem is that people feel completely forgotten. When a subordinate comes to you for advice on personal matters, it indicates their trust and respect for you, clearly showing a strong relationship—but it's important to maintain this relationship. No matter what issue your subordinate wants to discuss, avoid interrupting them or sending them away. While these issues may seem trivial to you, they are undoubtedly very important to them. If an employee looks unwell, ask if they are feeling unwell. If they take leave to care for a sick wife, ask about her recovery when they return to work. Additionally, inquire about their daughter's school performance. Even small acts of care can linger in their minds for days or nights, reminding them of your kindness.
This is not difficult to do, yet in daily life, you will be surprised to find that such small gestures can make a significant difference in your relationships with subordinates. Chinese management places great emphasis on ensuring subordinates feel at ease, believing that a leader must be magnanimous. If a leader is overly calculating, petty, and cannot tolerate the slightest imperfection, they are no different from "driving birds away from the forest and fish away from the deep," and will never have many followers.
As the saying goes, "A little more tolerance is a blessing." Only a leader with a heart as vast as the sea, who does not dwell on their subordinates' mistakes, possesses strong personal charm and can receive support and help at critical moments. P16-17