Singapore Business Customs and Etiquette
Please note that we are not authorised to provide any investment advice. The content on this page is for information purposes only.
Singapore is the hub of international business activity in South East Asia and the starting point and base of international businesses and business people in the region. English is spoken by all Singaporeans and the language business is conducted in.
Singapore is the hub of international business activity in South East Asia and the starting point and base of international businesses and business people in the region. English is spoken by all Singaporeans and the language business is conducted in.
The best time to do business in Singapore is outside of the Chinese Ney Year Period when many businesses close and during the Christmas holiday period when many expatriates go on vacation. There are many public holidays and long weekends in Singapore so it’s always a good idea to check the list of Singapore public holidays.
Business conduct and customs in Singapore
Business attire in Singapore is typically casual. Long trousers and short sleeve shirts are acceptable and appropriate especially during the hotter months. Ties are not commonly worn, nor jackets in most businesses unless dealing in banking and finance where the dress code is more formal. Lightweight wool and linen suits are better suited to the heat and weather, and you should feel free to remove your jacket if it gets uncomfortable.
Business meetings in Singapore typically start with a handshake and introduction. Sometimes, the senior person you are meeting with may not introduce you directly to more junior members of the team. Acknowledge the team with a smile and reserve the handshake till the end of the meeting when everyone is better acquainted. It is appropriate to shake hands with both men and women in Singapore.
Exchanging business cards in Singapore is performed in the beginning of the meeting. Present and receive business cards with both hands – spend a short time reading the full name on the card and person’s title before putting it away.
Addressing people in Singapore varies between Chinese, Malays and Indians. Chinese for example have 3 names, the first being their surname. Address the person by an honorific title and their surname. If they want to move to a first name basis, they will advise you which of their two personal names to use. Otherwise, assume the name and title of a person the way it’s been introduced to you.
Travelling in Singapore is normally done by taxi. Twenty minutes is ample time to get anywhere within the cbd and city areas – and allow half an hour to 45 minutes if travelling out of the city and more for peak traffic times. However if you do chose to use the MRT within the city, give yourself twenty minutes to half an hour to give yourself time to walk and find everything.
Business relationships and communication in Singapore: Singaporeans are soft-spoken and calm in demeanor. They prefer to follow a set agenda during business meetings in a linear path and not go off tangent or talk about their personal life. Small talk will include conversations about food and local attractions. Be patient and speak slowly so they may interrupt with questions and queries. In fact, encourage them to do so, so they are clear and are able to follow your presentation.
Business negotiations in Singapore happen at a slow pace. Singaporeans are non-confrontational, so their verbal agreement does not always signify unity in opinion. Allow a long pause before expecting an answer to a question, speak to quickly and you will miss their answer. Singaporeans are tough negotiators on price and deadlines. Be prepared with concessions you can make without injuring your business. Decisions are consensus driven so don’t be surprised if follow up meetings are made with other stakeholders and the wider group before a deal is struck.
