Management Theories from Ancient China

The Chinese have tended to value a collectivist society and economy, particularity when compared to the individualism of the West. Dig a little deeper, however, and the case can be made that the ancient Chinese were developing management theories as far back as 2000 BC.

Here are a few leadership tips taken from ancient texts such as The Great Plan and The Officials of Zhou, courtesy of the Globalist:

• "The three virtues are correct procedure, strong management and mild management. Adhere to correct procedure in situations (times) of peace and tranquility, use strong management in situations of violence and disorder, apply mild management in situations of harmony and order."
• "If rulers attend carefully to their personal improvement, with concern for the long-term, they will be able to show unselfish benevolence and to draw perceptive distinctions among people."
• "All intelligent people will exert themselves to serve their rulers." Success in management comes from "knowing people and keeping people satisfied."

Photo by Flickr user "World Economic Forum," CC 2.0.