Business Culture in Singapore

Singapore government has developed an atmosphere for modern & vibrant business culture and a successful economy. The island nourishes multicultural and cross cultural values even when it comes to business. The culture involves 3rd generation Chinese, Malay in large number, Indian mostly south Indians and Arabs. So someone going to do business in Singapore should always keep these cultural influences in mind to get the best out of country.

When shaking hands you should know the cultural background of the person. Most of the Malays are Muslim in religion. So if you are seeing a Malay woman, then wait for her to approach for a handshake first. If she’s not doing then you may bow and keep your hand on your heart to show respect to the lady. If you are meeting a Malay man then go for a handshake. If you are meeting a Chinese then again bow is the way to greet him or her. Even if you are extending you hand for a handshake, keep it gentle. Indians specially the modern Indians shake hands as the greeting. The traditional style of greeting is saying Namaste with joining the palms and bows a bit, when you meet them. It will work very well for traditional Hindu’s.

Chinese names are derived by surname followed by first name. You can always call a Chinese by Mr. First name. Even you will get western names in Chinese as a name alias. Chinese woman either keep their maiden name or use their husbands name as identity. Malay use their first name, then ‘bin’ if man and ‘bint’ if woman, and then their father’s name although they have a custom to be called by their first name. On the other hand Indians do not have anything special when it comes to naming or addressing them.