Experts suggest following principles.
First is to interact with all levels of government in China.
Second is the development of relations with government through organizations
The third principle is that the personal relationship, known as guanxi in Chinese, is not enough when it comes to forging good relations with government
The fourth is that companies should remember that there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Business in China should be conducted with "Chinese characteristics."
Kodak's principles
"Based on Kodak values, we build and utilize warm, trusting, sustainable relationships with all levels of Chinese Government," said Yeh, now the vice-president of Eastman Kodak.
She outlined 10 fundamental principles for government relationship management in China:
All business relationships involve government.
Guanxi is only the first step in government relationship management, but is insufficient in terms of influencing government thinking and decisions.
Do not have the same approach in different areas.
Exploit all contacts.
When in Rome, do as the Romans do.
Some things are better left unsaid.
All politics is local. There is a new generation of leaders in China.
Be a respected corporate citizen.
Seek help from trade/industry associations, NGOs, the American Chamber of Commerce, business councils, the US Embassy, and Washington, DC.
Visits by the company's top management. But these must be well-prepared and purposeful. If you come empty-handed, you will go home empty-handed.