Introduction
When Chinese partners say “Let’s consider it,” international professionals often misinterpret it as positive. In reality, this high-context phrase hides 7 possible meanings. This guide provides 12 actionable strategies to turn ambiguity into opportunity.
Ⅰ. 7 Hidden Meanings Behind “Consider It”
1.1 Cultural Decoding Table
| Scenario | Real Intention | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| After initial pitch | Fundamental flaws (20%) | ⚠️⚠️⚠️ |
| During deadlock | Waiting for your concession (45%) | ⚠️⚠️ |
| Pre-signature | Clause reservations (10%) | ⚠️⚠️⚠️ |
Case: A European supplier stopped following up, losing the deal to competitors.
Ⅱ. 3-Step Response Framework: Decode → Verify → Resolve
2.1 Immediate Decoding (Within 24 Hours)
- Nonverbal Signs: ✅ Avoided eye contact → Likely rejection ✅ Quick exit with smile → Polite brush-off
- Insider Intel: Use mutual contacts to ask “Any specific concerns?”
2.2 Intent Verification (Within 48 Hours)
Questioning Tactics:
- Time Anchoring: “Which day next week works for follow-up?” (Test priority)
- Hypothetical Probe: “Would adjusted payment terms accelerate decision?” (Identify barriers)
- Social Proof: “You efficiently advanced Project A last time” (Trigger positive recall)
2.3 Solution Design (Within 72 Hours)
| Issue | Custom Solution | Phrasing Example |
|---|---|---|
| Price concern | Tiered pricing + value-added | “Option B maintains cost with…” |
| Trust deficit | Factory tour + C-suite meeting | “Our CEO would like to brief you” |
| Process hurdle | Internal presentation support | “Need market data for your review?” |
Ⅲ. Scenario-Specific Strategies
3.1 Early Engagement
Mistake: “OK, waiting for your news!” (Passive loss) Fix:
- Next-day email: “3 optimization directions based on our discussion…”
- Small gesture: Send industry report/sample (<$30 to avoid bribery)
3.2 Negotiation Stalemate
Breakthroughs:
- “Virtual Concession”: “We’ll cover shipping if you confirm验收 standards”
- Informal Bonding: “New teahouse nearby – care for afternoon tea tomorrow?”
3.3 Pre-Contract Phase
Risk Mitigation:
- Written memo: “Draft based on today’s discussion – any adjustments?”
- Intermediary Briefing: Use trusted third party to soften formal rejections
Ⅳ. Cultural Insight: Why No Direct Nos?
- Face Preservation: Direct refusal damages relationships
- Network Cost: 70% of Chinese business depends on multi-level approvals
- Future-Oriented: “Consider” leaves room for future collaboration
Data: McKinsey finds 62% of “consider” cases fail due to poor follow-up.
Ⅴ. Practical Toolkit
5.1 Follow-Up Templates
- Email Subject: [Addendum] 3 Optimizations for Project XX
- WeChat Message: “GM Wang, logistics solution from XX Company (attachment)”
5.2 Risk Checklist
✅ Decision-makers identified? ✅ 1-2 flexible clauses prepared? ✅ Informal channel established? ✅ Alternatives ready?
Ⅵ. Case Studies
Success: German Equipment Supplier
Situation: Price hesitation for 2 weeks Actions:
- Invited technical director to factory visit
- Proposed “installment + performance wager” Outcome: Signed contract with 15% uplift in 4 weeks
Failure: US Software Firm
Mistake: Over-pitching without addressing data security concerns Result: Lost exclusive Distribution Rights in China
Conclusion
“Let’s consider it” is not a full stop but a comma. By decoding hidden needs, proactive verification, and tailored solutions, international professionals can convert ambiguity into partnership. Remember: In Chinese business, persistent yet respectful follow-up outperforms perfect first pitches.
Interactive Quiz:
What’s the best response to “Let’s consider it” after a pitch? A) Wait patiently for their call B) Send a thank-you email with no attachments C) Provide a constrained-time alternative D) All of the above (Answer: C – Creates urgency without pressure)