Business and Social Etiquette 101: Getting to Know the Singaporean Culture

Singapore is a crowded city where rules are strict and businesses thrive. It is very easy to obtain the legal rights to open up shops and other businesses in Singapore so many people there are wealthy. Thus, many people want to get in Singapore to cash in on some business.

Aside from the common known fact that, Singaporean laws forbid gum chewing in public, what are some characteristics of the country? How does a country full of Chinese, Malays, and Indians go about in developing their unique culture and custom?

Singapore is a lot like America where people are free to dress what they wish. Thus, this implies Singaporeans prefer more casual dress with tank tops , shorts, sandals, and flip flops; however, formal attire at upscale events and restaurants are reinforced. Some Muslim followers or Indians choose to wear traditional dress, and that is perfectly accepted in Singapore.

Singapore is a small, crowded, hot city where you might find some trouble getting on and off the MRT if you don't know how to push and shove your way in. Think of the NYC subway during rush hour where pushing and shoving is expected to get on the subway.

Business wise, Singaporeans are punctual people. They greet each other with a firm handshake. Most Malays would bow to you instead of shaking your hand. Always remember to receive and give business cards with both hands as a sign of respect. Muslim ladies extend their hands to be greeted, and is only then you can shake their hands. Most people do not wear business jackets because the heat is simply too hot. Do not schedule meetings during Chinese New Year (Jan. or Feb.) as many offices close for a week. Culture wise, Singaporeans follow the Chinese's Confucianism school of thought. Basically, the younger generation must pay respect to the elder generation. One must offer his or her subway seat to the elderly and treat them with kindness and patience even though he or she does not know the elderly. In 1996, a law required adults to be financially responsible for their elderly parents if the need arises.

Take note of gift-giving taboos. Never wrap your gift in white, black or blue as they indicate death. Never give white flowers, give clocks, stork images (for baby showers) and knives for gifts because they too infer death. Singaporeans do not open gifts when they receive them because it is disrespect to do so as it is an indication of wanting more gifts to open after all the presents are opened. When invited to a formal dinner house party, do not bring food as it is an insult to the host's hospitality.

If you are giving a gift to an ethnic Indian, consider the following. Give monetary amounts in odd numbers. It is more fortunate to receive a $19 gift card than on that is $20. Wrapping your gift is yellow, orange, green and other bright colors will also bring good luck to your recipient.