Few countries can be the master of so many domains, but Singapore has earned the reputation of being one of the most cosmopolitan destinations while also being the centre of the corporate world. Global enterprises intersect in Singapore, and so a thriving business culture exists, making it home to a diverse mix of nationalities and interests. If Singapore is your next business stop, head office or home, let’s shed a spotlight on Singapore and get to know why it is so revered in the business world.
Hospitality is redefined in Singapore
Innovative bar designs, island clubs and modern cafes scatter Singapore, appealing to both international guests and the corporate scene. Coffee machines in Singapore provide an opportunity to bind corporates, complementing the Singaporean culture of meeting and dining together. Despite the expansive population of Singapore, the skyline has an array of building types and designs, honouring these hospitality hubs and planning future builds around them. Whether you prefer your Americano with a view of the water or choose to immerse in the concrete jungle – these hubs are littered with corporates.
One thing to keep in mind is that the business breakfast is not something that has translated to Singoperon culture, with lunch being the meal of choice for business dealings and entertaining. Before you plan a lunch with associates, you need to acknowledge the cultural melting pot that is Singapore and choose an option that is going to be respectful and appropriate. For example, Malay business associates (who are Muslim) will not eat pork, drink alcohol, nor conduct businesses on Fridays or during Ramadan. Many other cultures are vegetarian, so consider this before the meeting, as it is customary that the host orders (and pays for) all of the dishes.
Business dealings are by the book
Singaporean’s are a respectful group of people, both native and new citizens. It’s a well-known fact that in Singapore, the business culture evolves from authentic action, with ‘connections’ and strategic relationships not being the currency of growth. When ex-pats relocate to Singapore from other parts of the world, they need to readjust their expectations of how progress is made and how to ‘earn’ status and accomplishment.
In Singapore, it’s also customary to give gifts when meeting new contacts and even when you catch up with acquaintances. This expresses respect and thanks and must be given and received with both hands. The same goes for sharing business cards, these should be issued and received with both hands and treated as a precious gift rather than casually being tucked away. Don’t leave gift giving to the last minute before your business meeting, as different cultures regard goods in different lights, and you don’t want to make the wrong impression with a gift that is not a cultural fit.
Etiquette
It’s too complex to apply the same etiquettes for all of Singapore’s residents, as the population is 75% Chinese and Singaporean, followed by a large Malay, Indian, Western and European demographic. That being said, punctuality is an expected etiquette in Singapore, and so is an appropriate dress for formal and semi-formal occasions. As alcohol is not widely embraced like it is in other countries, there is an expectation that drinking is consumed in moderation and without disorderly behaviour. Singapore also has the death penalty for drug use.
It is also accepted, and actually a compliment, to burp after and during a meal in Singapore. It’s also polite to leave a small amount of food on the plate to show that you were well fed, as an empty plate suggests that there was not enough food catered during the meal.
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Singapore is an incredible country that has so much to be explored and experienced, especially within the business culture. Before you venture to Singapore for business dealings or to work in this area, learn the customs so that you can respect its residents and have success in your field.
