Peter Santos, chief executive of the United States-based Audience Inc.

Q: What are your hobbies?

A: Skiing and hiking are my favorite hobbies. In addition, I am also a great connoisseur of wine.

Q: What kind of green lifestyle do you follow?

A: I use an electric car, a Tesla vehicle. It is not only a good clean-energy vehicle but also the best in terms of user interface software.

Q: What is the book you are reading now?

A: I'm reading a book written by Jeff Speck about urban planning and how it can make cities more livable.

Q: What are the three words that you would use to describe yourself?

A: Direct, thoughtful and determined.

Q: What are the places in China that have impressed you the most and you have not gone but want to explore?

A: The place I would like to go most in China is Xi'an, an ancient capital. I have always been fascinated about history, as it helps me understand China better.

Q: Who is your icon?

A: In terms of impact on the industry, I'd say Steve Jobs. We are from the same town, and one of my friends was his neighbor since childhood. What I admire most in Jobs is his vision and willpower.

Q: What is the best way to break ice with a Chinese businessman you've met for the first time?

A: Conversation is the best way to know about a person or place. So when I meet someone new, I utilize the opportunity to understand his background and how he reached his present position. If I'm visiting a city, I would also like to understand something about the city.

Q: What are the three words that you would use to describe Chinese businessmen?

A: Fast, adaptable and open.