Originally Posted by xinhui

According to one returnee, he found it difficult to deal with co-workers who were generally happy with a lower standard of work. He also found it frustrating when told by colleagues that this or that international norm need not be applied, as “this is China.” Another returnee noted that insisting on higher standards is a constant struggle.


Yet another challenge cited by HR managers is the straightforward style preferred by returnees. Several returnees admitted that they sometimes get impatient with fellow co-workers who speak or write in a roundabout way. As one returnee pointed out, he prefers people to say what they mean, rather than begin a conversation with preambles such as “I may not understand the issue very well, but I will humbly try to give you my perspective.” Many local Chinese prefer the roundabout way, as it avoids confrontation, particularly if negative comments are involved. Chinese returnees often find such talk needless and frustrating.


Generally, the area cited by returnees as taking the longest time to readjust to is the difference in value systems between China and Western countries. This includes humanistic values and respect for the law. The bureaucratic nature of getting things done in China is also typically difficult to adjust to.

Originally Posted by xinhui

While returnees are usually motivated and keen to contribute to the firms they work for, some may not be used to the heavy emphasis on group culture found in many Chinese workplaces. One returnee said he was accustomed to the clear delineation between work and leisure when he was working in the United States. But when he returned to China, he discovered that the delineation is not as clear-cut, especially when it comes to working over-time and on weekends.