Singapore has come a long way since its first official elections in 1959. Realising that the island had nothing to offer apart from its inhabitants, successive governments have worked miracles in creating a modern, vibrant and successful economy.
In addition to economic success the island is also a fine example of harnessing multiculturalism and creating a relatively tolerant society. Singapore is an amalgam of an indigenous Malay population with a majority of third generation Chinese as well as Indian and Arab immigrants. As a result it is very difficult to generalise about the country as a whole. The following guide to doing business in Singapore shall offer some introductory tips..
To Shake or Not to Shake?
When doing business in Singapore the most common form of meeting is the handshake. However each of the three main ethnic groups have their own traditions and protocols.
Malays:
As the majority of Malays are Muslim one should note that physical touch between sexes is not commonplace. When meeting a Malay woman wait to see if she extends her hand first, if so then it is OK to shake it. If not, then bow slightly and place your hand over your heart as a sign of respect. Between men a normal handshake is the norm when doing business.
Chinese:
Among the Singapore Chinese a bow is the traditional greeting. However, as a foreigner you would not be expected to do so. A (not too firm) handshake is fine. The Chinese are more likely to be comfortable shaking hands with women.
Indians:
Many Indians will shake hands although the older generations and traditionalists still use the namaste – a slight bow with palms brought together. Some of the more traditional Hindus may be uncomfortable shaking hands with women so it is always a good idea to use the namaste if one finds themselves in this situation.
What's in a name?
As with the handshakes, the use names are also related to the particular cultural group.
Chinese:
Chinese names are usually composed of a surname followed by one or two first names, such as Chen [surname] Li Mei [first names]. When doing business in Singapore men should simply be addressed with their professional title plus a surname or simply using Mr. Mao. Some Chinese women use their husband's name but some still keep their maiden name. Ms. Chen Mei Ling who married Mr. Ping Jia Bao can either be addressed as Mrs. Ping or Mdm. Chen.
You will also notice that many Chinese have a 'western name'. So even if their first name is actually Jiewei they may introduce themselves as Richard.
Malays:
Malays due to the Islamic influence do not have family names per se. They have a given name plus 'bin' [son of] or 'bint' [daughter of] followed by their father's name. So for example, Ali bin Sulaiman is actually Ali the son of Sulaiman. In business they would only usually use their first name, i.e. Mr Ali.
Indians:
Indians in Singapore may follow several different traditions in terms of naming based on their religious background. While they did not traditionally have surnames, some have now adopted a family name that all members of their family use, generation after generation.
The general naming format for Indians is X son of Y or X daughter of Y. One should address them using the appropriate title (Doctor, Professor, etc) or Mr/Mrs followed by their first name.
Communication
When doing business in Singapore you will notice the people are a very polite and as a result their communication style can come across as quite vague or confusing. This has evolved due to the need to maintain face and respect relationships. For example, even if someone disagrees with you they would never out rightly say "no". They may even use the word "yes" but it could mean anything from "I agree" to "I'm not sure" to "no". As Singaporeans communicate implicitly it is up to the other party to read between the lines to make sense of what is being said.
Similarly when asking questions Singaporeans will use a "yes/no" formula, as in "Would you like to have dinner or not?" Although this may come across as slightly rude it is in fact the opposite. The question is being asked in such a way that is does not impose any obligation on the person to give an answer in any particular way, in other words "Whatever you are comfortable with".
When doing business it is not uncommon for Singaporeans to laugh or smile in seemingly inappropriate points in meetings. Again this relates back to protecting face and maintaining harmony. A smile may actually hide shyness, anger or disapproval whereas a laugh could be disguising anxiety.
Business Meetings
Business people in Singapore are cautious. They like to make sure they are doing business with the right person(s) who also offer the best deal. As a result it is necessary to take things slowly, spend time establishing a good relationship and demonstrating your capabilities.
Maintaining face is critical. Ensure you are polite and professional at all times. As with the above, try not to be too direct in asking questions or giving answers. Rather than say "no" to a request rephrase it as "I will try," "I am not sure" or "We'll see". Losing your temper is a serious no-no. Always speak in gentle tones and remain clam even when under great pressure. This will gain you much more respect that becoming animated and 'passionate'.
Language
English is the common language of the island. The local colloquial dialect of English is known as "Singlish". It has many creole-like characteristics, having incorporated vocabulary and grammar from various Chinese, Malay, and Indian languages.
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