The Bamboo Network firms are family-oriented and shy away from publicity. They take a low-profile in the commercial world. They do not produce and distribute consumer products with their own brand names. These overseas Chinese business firms rely on centralized family control and informal transactions. This minimized bureaucracy and paperwork.
Key information is obtained in conversation and retained in the heads of senior managers.
In ethnic Chinese firms, transactions often are dealt with by a not jotted in a diary. Money is borrowed from family and friends on trust. Management styles are informal, and far more intuitive than American are accustomed to. There is little need for consultation. These Chinese business family leaders know each other personally, often come from a common birthplace.