Working

Commuting in Beijing can be an exhausting, dirty, harrowing experience. Whether standing on the subway, sitting on the bus, stuck in traffic, or crossing the street through a sea of cars, it is tempting to day dream about a reality in which getting to the office merely requires a walk down the hall. Rising in popularity over the last few years, telecommuting saves workers the hassle of travel, increases productivity and saves companies money on expensive offices. In a world ever more concerned with the state of our planet, taking commuters off the road also has a positive effect on the environment.

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This time of year can be extremely busy, with many people putting in over time and losing sleep in rush to meet Spring Festival deadlines. Tension and anxiety can begin to take their toll. Stress management techniques can help maintain productivity, keep you grounded and prevent burn outs. Here are some suggestions to help manage the mayhem:

1. Breathing exercises: Most of us tend to take shallow breaths, especially when we are under stress. Deep breathing not only tells or bodies to relax, but it also oxygenates the tissues. Try this exercise.

2. Exercise: Exercise releases endorphins which are the natural “feel good” chemicals in our body. It also helps us release tension, anger, and frustrations.

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In many an expat’s home country, teens are keen to begin their working life quite early – usually through odd jobs or part time roles that pad out the pocket money. Beginning work in this way not only gives young people valuable work experience, it also teaches them commitment and responsibility, and enhances their social and networking skills. The cash flow injection is a nice bonus, too.

Working in China, however, may be a little tricky for many teens. Language issues are not the only barrier – the logistics of working for Chinese companies may not suit many expats, and the battle for work in this town is clearly dominated by the masses of Chinese graduates seeking work after school or university. Then there’s the ayi barrier – many jobs normally filled by teens are absorbed by this ubiquitous and multi-skilled house manager.

So. How can ex-pat teens join the workforce here in Beijing without complications or treading on ayi’s toes? Here are some ideas.

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