The Difference Between Chinese and Russian Entrepreneurs

All entrepreneurs may be cut from the same basic cloth, but how they interact can be highly idiosyncratic. My study of Chinese and Russian entrepreneurs reveals distinct differences in the nature of their networks and suggests how best to approach them. Entrepreneurial-network Characteristics The character of institutional change and the national psyche in China and […]

by

Bat Batjargal

by

Bat Batjargal

From the Magazine (October 2008)

Summary.

Reprint: F0810E

China’s recent transformation is characterized by gradual institutionalization, and Russia’s by what looks like rapid deinstitutionalization. The Chinese tend to think concretely, whereas the Russians lean toward abstractions. Understanding differences like these can help Westerners gain entry into each country’s networks.

All entrepreneurs may be cut from the same basic cloth, but how they interact can be highly idiosyncratic. My study of Chinese and Russian entrepreneurs reveals distinct differences in the nature of their networks and suggests how best to approach them.

A version of this article appeared in the October 2008 issue of Harvard Business Review.

BB

Bat Batjargal (batjarg@fas.harvard.edu) is a research associate at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and an assistant professor at Beijing University.

The Difference Between Chinese and Russian Entrepreneurs

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