For me... it was the idea that a man's word and his handshake is worth more than anything.... so the idea that any Chinese company will say anything to look good, and have no problem going back on whatever they said when it aids them... bothered me the most.

Second is all the fun times they give you a "surprise." The lack of planning and communication will leave any employee of a Chinese company with last minute overtime with any explanation.

Overcoming the stupid

The entire thing is a challenge.

First off, be prepared to give up any and all ethics that you may have. Chinese companies are only concerned with profit. Immediate profit. How this is achieved doesn't matter. If lying, cheating, stealing, going back on your word, ignoring contractual obligations makes the money, it's the norm here. Even considered "smart".

Planning for the future doesn't exist. At all.

Basically, finding justification for being a total scumbag is how most Chinese businesses are run.

I've worked for Chinese companies in the past, and the only thing I can say is NEVER AGAIN.

1) Being told the night before (or even on the day) that you are working/not working the next day

2) point 1 is an example of a general lack of consideration/communication

3) the games they play to try to claw back some money from you

4) ethics is a county in England 

one thing I've learnt  they will do things to help you if it gives them face