Before I came to China, I never dreamed of karaoke as one of China’s favorite pastimes. I had always imagined karaoke singing as a hokey act seen only in romantic comedies.

For me, singing was intimate, something that you did in the shower. Singing in front of people was like stripping your clothes off in front of strangers.

My first experience with karaoke was at a birthday party in Beijing back in 2002, when some foreign students impressed their Chinese friends with accented singing of popular Chinese songs.

I was so shocked by this scene and pledged to avoid karaoke at all costs. Little did I know, living and working in China would mean a future haunted by karaoke TV or “KTV.”

In most Chinese cities, numerous KTV signs blend into the fluorescent lights of urban forests. As my boyfriend once speculated, “The profits generated by KTVs may very reasonably make up a significant percent of China’s GDP.”

In China, karaoke clubs are the ultimate entertainment, playing the roles of pub, bar, lounge and disco all in one. They serve as the place for university students’ weekend getaway, friends’ get-togethers and businessmen’s social networking.

I have been completely unsuccessful at evading KTV. Throughout my years in China I have been obliged to attend KTV birthday parties, business parties and office parties. But I would have to admit that each experience has made it less painful.

Now I have realized that karaoke singing is not just singing; it is entertainment and a social opportunity to display wealth and taste.

Businessmen impress their colleagues with expensive liquors, leather sofas and chandelier lighting the singing rooms. Hostesses show their hospitality, refilling green tea and whiskey and applauding guests’ singing skills.

Karaoke singing, especially in Chinese, is an icebreaker, an opportunity to share part of yourself with your peers and gain their trust, respect and sometimes sympathy.

I have to confess that karaoke nights, as embarrassing and strange as they are, can be hilariously fun. Perhaps it is all about attitude and strategy.

Here are some important tips to make the best of your KTV experience:

A is for acceptance: Accept the karaoke culture in China. You may avoid one time, but you won’t be able to escape karaoke in the long run if you plan to live and work in China.

B is for Ballads. These slow, mushy and generally long songs are going to make up at least 80 percent of the evening’s repertoire. If ballads are not your thing, it’s going to be a long night. I recommend you to sing some thing upbeat and fun. ABBA and the Village People are always crowd pleasers.

C is for Chinese. Yes, most of the songs will be in Chinese. Learn one, and impress your Chinese friends and colleagues. This is an instant way to win their approval and respect. Just do it once and you will be safe for the rest of the night.

D is for Drinks. Have some whiskey and green tea, the cocktail of choice at most karaoke outings. They make singing easier. I promise.

E is for Eats. Fruit platters, sweet popcorn, chicken wings, duck tongues and pig intestines. No matter how strange they sound, you are there to entertain each other. Enjoy!

F is for Feeling. Don’t be surprised if your co-workers or business partners sing with eyes closed, clutch their microphones, and perform other music-video-worthy behaviors. Karaoke night is the time to witness the alter egos of your otherwise diligent co-workers. You may wish to bring your camera.

G is for Girls, Girls, Girls! Don’t be alarmed if you are presented with a parade entourage of prom dress clad ladies during your first karaoke adventure. Just be aware that if you ask them to listen to you sing, there may be a pretty price to pay.

H is for High notes. Practice makes perfect! Happy singing!