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What's happening in China?
Growing at an annual rate of almost 10% since the start of 2003, China is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world. As the economy expands, the demand for experienced, educated staff with real-life work experience is rising. As a result, business professionals are relocating their employees from around the world to manage their businesses. They are coming to companies like Crown to assist with support services to help make their assignments a success.
What makes an assignment in China a success?
Accurate pre-arrival information and "on the ground" support are essential. China varies greatly from the modern and dynamic cities of Beijing and Shanghai to emerging rural areas in China's West, so support programs must be tailored to meet not only the needs of the expatriate and their family, but the destination location in China. Expert local knowledge to guide expatriates through the maze of Chinese bureaucracy is a must!
What about returning Chinese nationals?
China's "Sea Turtles," or returning nationals and overseas Chinese descendants, represent a vital resource as China continues to modernize its business practices and engage on the global stage. While many returning nationals have a "culture and language" advantage over non-Chinese expatriates, their years in developed Western countries and education often creates very different expectations in housing, lifestyle and educational opportunities for their children. Returning nationals relocation support programs must address expectations and aspirational needs as well as being grounded in local expertise.
Who are Known as "China's Sea Turtles?"
"Hai Gui" means the returning "Sea Turtles." This is often used to describe a Chinese national who went abroad (often to study) and then returned back home. The pronunciation also suggests the Chinese phrase for sea turtles that were born on the shore, grew up at sea, but eventually returned to the shore again.
What about Expatriates?
Expatriates can arrive in China with strong preconceptions so accurate pre-arrival information and expectation management is essential. It ensures they are able to adjust to their new environment and be ready to take advantage of the wonderful social and cultural experiences China will offer to the enquiring expatriate.
And the schools?
China offers a broad selection of international schools but many of these are clustered in first tier cities. The rate of growth of China's economy and the arrival of many expatriates means that places in some schools are limited so expatriates should commence the search and enrollment process as early as possible after confirmation of their relocation.
And finding a place to live?
China's first tier cities offer a wide range of housing styles including homes built to western expectations however second and third tier cities have poorly developed housing and infrastructure to support expatriates. Most real estate agents do not speak English and there are few laws or regulations to protect the unwary expatriate. Professional bilingual home finding support streamlines the process and protects expatriates from unscrupulous or ambiguous rental contracts.
What type of experience does Crown Relocations have in China?
Crown Relocations in China provide a broad range of relocation and moving services to expatriates arriving from all continents. Crown's staff in China are bilingual and many have lived or have been educated overseas, so they are able to bring an international perspective and empathy to their service delivery while at the same time, expertly navigate the maze of regulations.
