When one describes the managerial approach of the Chinese, some of the more commonly mentioned
characteristics include collectivism and harmony, centralized control, authoritarian and paternalistic
leadership, family-staffed businesses, expectation of hardworking employees, and strong organizational
networks and business connections. These characteristics are practiced both in China and overseas by the
Chinese Diaspora, and these practices can be traced to the value system dictated by Confucius. These
practices are influenced by the Five Relationships of Confucianism, the Five Virtues, and the Confucian
Work Ethic. The Five Relationships dictate appropriate behavior and roles for organizational members;
the Five Virtues provide a moral framework for society and stress the importance of harmony; and the
Confucian Work Ethic stresses the important of hard work, loyalty and dedication, frugality, and a love of
learning.