Business Etiquette to follow in Singapore

Singapore is a multicultural state and has a lively business culture. If you are doing business in Singapore, here are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure success in your business dealings.

Know the Clients?

It is worthwhile to know the backgrounds of your prospective business partners. Singapore is a multicultural state with many diverse people, with varying belief systems. In Singapore, you will find many ethnic groups like Malays, Indians, Chinese and others. It is important to know their religious affiliations because, for instance, Malay communities do not hold meetings on Fridays and during Ramadan.

Be punctual?

It is imperative to arrive on time for all business meetings, lunches and all events. If you are getting late due to an unavoidable circumstance it is important to inform them beforehand. Likewise, readiness to present material, presentations etc is also important.

Greetings?

When you meet your business partners you may give a firm handshake and a slight bow of the head. This is the standard greeting in Singaporean business culture. You must shake hands at the beginning of the meeting and towards the end. Address the person with their name and title at all formal meetings. Some senior members might prefer to only bow, this is a prevalent custom among the elder Chinese community.

Handing out Business cards?

Exchanging business cards is a formality in Asian business culture, and one must treat this custom with respect. Have a ready supply of cards, as you will need to distribute them to all significant people you meet at meetings, conferences dinners etc. When you receive a business card, take it with both of your hands, after which you must read it before politely putting it in a safe place, like your wallet. It is also worthwhile to translate your card into Malay or Chinese depending on the ethnicity of your clients.

At meetings?

At formal meetings don't shake around your legs or tap them incessantly. This body language suggests that you have a weak temperament or not paying attention to what is being said. It's also considered impolite to point at someone with your finger or hit your palm with your fists while raising an issue.?When doing business in Singapore, many visitors are often surprised by how direct Singaporean businesspeople can be. They are not afraid to ask questions about data, facts and money. In general, Singaporean business people tend to make decisions quickly and prefer to get down to business right away at the commencement of the meeting. Therefore, it's best to have clear, concise, and direct conversations, which are both recommended and appreciated. If you are looking for a place to stay with excellent meeting facilities likes of?Pan Pacific Singapore can be a great option to base your stay.

Dress code

In a business environment, Western attire is expected. Men usually wear long-sleeved shirts in light colours, sleek trousers and a tie without a jacket. While women can wear sleeved blouses, business suits and knee-length skirts.

Socialising?

Although Singaporeans are direct and fast in their business approach, they would still like to get to know you on a more personal level. You will be expected to attend lunches, and dinners?in the?best?hotel Club Lounge in Singapore, and sometimes even a home visit can be expected. Don't expect business to be the subject of all these meetings. Sometimes they will completely exclude all business matters at informal meetings. When visiting homes, take a small gift from your home country, which will be greatly appreciated.