关系

I'm really enjoying this summer so far. I think this may be because I have more control over my life than I've ever had. My productivity is more efficient because I choose projects that interest me and work on them when my energy levels are naturally higher.

I've been listening to business podcasts on my iTouch as I commute to work or wander around the streets near my workplace. Yesterday morning I listened to one produced by MIT about guanxi (关系)- this is Chinese for "relationships." The podcast talked about Microsoft's experience doing business in China and how to break into the extensive networks you really have to socialize and get to know your business partners on a personal level. My coworkers tell me that drinking and basketball provide fail-proof common ground in these types of situations. I've actually heard of American companies hiring professional drinkers to hang out with Chinese business partners. If you've ever tried baijiu (Chinese rice wine less than a dollar a bottle, tastes like rotten asparagus and Mr. Clean mixed together), you'll understand why this could be necessary.

If my own experiences in China provide any barometer, Westerners really have to go out of their way to initiate friendships with locals. I've started just sitting down in restaurants across from people sitting alone. I ask what their favorite dish is and usually this is all that's needed to break the ice. Still, cab drivers are my favorite.

Sometimes I fear that I won't have any marketable skills when I leave Yale. It's probably true but not necessarily a bad thing. My internship is forcing me to learn technical skills. My coworkers give me random assignments in different Adobe programs that I have no idea how to do (I don't tell them this) and I sit and watch tutorials on Lynda.com. Great website for all kinds of tutorials, btw.

I think Wednesday ladies night is my thing. We went to the same club as last weekend and had a fabulous time. Lots of dancing on the stage. I was back home and in bed by 1 for work at 9. Perfect.

Now what about all that Chinese grammar I planned to review this summer?