Singapore is a modern , prosperous
and clean country which have a diverse population mainly consist of
chinese , malay and indians . Understanding the cultural traditions and
background of the Singaporean may be the key for doing business with them .
Things u should know :
1) Values and concept :
a) 'Kiasu'
Singaporean have a sosial attitude of '
fear of losing ' which in their word is called ' Kiasu' .This
concept refers to Singaporeans’desire to always comes first
, want to be the best and never lose out . It also indicates the
value Singaporeans place on competitiveness and strong work ethics.
b) Concept of 'Face'
This concept of ' face ' is similar to
pride . Singaporeans control their actions and behaviour in
public, won't confront or criticise other people openly and employ an
indirect communication style to prevent hurting people's pride /
losing 'face' in public .
2) Business entertainment
There are some things to be cautious about :
- Malay - Avoid conducting business on
fridays or during ramadan (Muslim Fasting month ) - Do not serve alcohol or
serve pork
- Most indians and part of chinese - Do not eat
beef
- The inviting party of a business social event
usually picks up the bill and the other party can reciprocate next time around.
3) Working practices in Singapore
a)Punctuality
Singaporeans are normally punctual for their
appointments and expects the same with others. Call them if you are
unexpectedly late.
b) Business hours
Normal business hours are 9 a.m. to 5
p.m. with one hour lunch break during weekdays. Some offices will
open for a half-day on Saturdays, typically in the morning.
c) Structure and hierarchy
Singaporean business culture where companies
have a top to down structure. Decisions are taken by the senior management
and subordinates without questioning or criticising their superiors.
4) Working relationships
Singapore is influenced by Asian philosophies of
creating good rapport before doing business. Which means Singaporeans
often prioritise personal relationships rather than the company
you work for.They are also cautious and like to make sure they are
doing business with the right person.
5) Doing Business in Singapore
- It is wise to use the appropriate title and
last name until told differently when meeting for the first time .
- The common form of greeting in business situations
is a light handshake .
- For men ,dark trousers, long-sleeved
shirts and ties are normal attires
- For female , blouses, skirts or trousers are normal attires
- It is rude to speak loudly .
6) Business Etiquette
- For female , blouses, skirts or trousers are normal attires
- It is rude to speak loudly .
6) Business Etiquette
- DO make sure you carefully inspect business
cards from your Singaporean
counterparts before putting them away.
- DO be careful giving gifts, especially to
government employees as this may be
considered bribery which is prohibited by
strict laws in Singapore.
- DON’T make intense eye contact with
a senior or older person as this will be
seen as a sign of disrespect.
7) Business gifts
- Typically wrapped, presented and received with two hands .
- To Chinese , Connotation of severance
or cutting, such as scissors are symbolize
conflict (letter openner is excluded)
- To Chinese , Number 4 rhymes with
"Death"
- To Chinese , gifting clocks connotation of death .
- To Malays , avoid products made
from pigskin and alcohol .
.jpg)
.jpg)
