Learning Mandarin is difficult, particularly when the language is used in a business context. Nevertheless, there are a collection of best-practices and insights that can help you overcome these difficulties. Our 10 essential tips make your path to Business Mandarin proficiency more manageable.

1) Set Clear Goals

Why do you want to learn Business Mandarin? Determine why you want to learn Business Mandarin. How will you measure success? Do you want to be able to read the Chinese business press? What is your timeline in doing so? Maybe your goals are more specific – your objective is to commit to memory 30 business-related vocabulary. Whatever the case, set clear goals and measure your progress.

2) Build Business Vocabulary

Whenever you read Chinese, write down and make a list of any business-related vocabulary that you come across. This is critical to your of learning Business Mandarin. Key vocabulary can be found in Chinese business press, articles, or even free reference lists online.

3) Learn Chinese Characters

Learning Chinese characters, in addition to the pinyin, is an essential step in building native level Chinese ability. Having knowledge of the characters themselves involves greater cultural understanding. You’ll also be able to recognize Chinese in its proper written form, which is essential when reviewing business or legal documents.

4) Immersion

Sharp exposure to Business Mandarin is a generally proven way to build proficiency. Read anything and everything with an electronic dictionary in hand and make notes of any key vocabulary. Practice speaking with native speakers. All this can improve your overall proficiency.

5) Invest in Reference Materials

Reference books and guides solely dedicated to practical Business Mandarin are an important tool for your learning. While live immersion and interacting with native speakers is the ultimate form of language acquisition, reference materials allow you to learn Business Mandarin that is practical and updated, all at your own pace. A good book can serve as a valuable resource to supplement your learning journey and provide additional guidance.

Ready to learn more?

Mandarin Chinese for Business provides you with specific language skills to lead commercial projects, manage teams and discuss business issues, all in Mandarin Chinese. We provide you with 200+ vocabulary for business, finance and sales, all in Mandarin Chinese.