Understanding paternalistic leadership: how to work with Chinese leaders

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this viewpoint is to introduce Westerners to Chinese leadership, leader behaviors, and expectations. The main features of Chinese paternalistic leadership (PL) are explored before outlining practical advice on what to expect when working with Chinese paternalistic leaders and their organizations. Design/methodology/approach This viewpoint is developed from both a review of the literature on paternalistic leadership and 45 in-depth interviews with Chinese leaders and their subordinates. This systematic data collection is coupled with lived experience, as the author lived, worked, and studied in China for three years. Findings The paper makes salient the three main behaviors of Chinese PL, as identified in the literature: benevolence, authoritarianism, and morality. This paper reports on how those unfamiliar with Chinese PL can negotiate and potentially thrive under this type of leadership. Originality/value The main contribution of this paper is the advice offered for those unfamiliar with PL; this advice is based on the academic literature and primary research. The advice, such as saving face and the importance of loyalty, makes the academic literature more accessible and lends practical application by highlighting how the research on PL is relevant to subordinates and colleagues.