Please name some places in China that impressed you most and destinations that you have not visited but want to explore.
I was really impressed with Shanghai. It is a beautiful city with a good contrast between modern and traditional.
I recently visited Chengdu after several years and was amazed by the city's rapid progress.
The amazing lakes in Wuxi and Hangzhou have also captivated me.
As for places I would like to visit, it would be Chongqing and Tibet.
What's the best way to break the ice with a Chinese businessman? Give three words to describe them.
The best way is to discover what is important to them and ask to learn about whatever that is.
Meeting over a meal and drinks also makes things less formal and helps in getting to know the person better.
It is important to "take the time to make a connection".
The three words I would use to describe the businessmen and women I work with in China are:
Driven, humble, and smart.
What kind of experience has shaped your thoughts the most?
Growing up in a relatively poor immigrant family and inner city environment was foundational to how I live and interact with others.
I have received encouragement from my family, friends and my wife and that has helped me throughout my life and career.
Professionally it has been about recognition - both positively and constructively.
When I have been recognized by others for a job well done I think through the elements of that success so that I can leverage them going forward.
Conversely, there have been times when I have not been successful (I hate to fail) and I try to use that as a learning as well.
I have been greatly shaped by meeting people who I admire and want to emulate.