Business Culture in Singapore

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

- 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 .