Singapore at a Glance
Singapore’s Business World
Knowing local business etiquette is important for a successful career in Singapore.
Getting a Job
Expat spouses looking for work in Singapore might find the Foreign Manpower website of the Ministry of Manpower quite useful. It provides a list of all registered employment agencies in Singapore, including performance ratings. Teachers, especially of English, are always in high demand.
The Internet with its many online career services and job databases is probably the best resource for people looking for a job in Singapore from abroad. In addition to well-known international search engines, there are plenty of Singapore-only job sites tailored to the expat market.
Alternatively, ask your nearest Singapore Overseas Mission for a list of international companies operating in Singapore. ContactSingapore maintains a good job portal plus useful links to other career sites in Singapore.
Social Customs
People coming to Singapore from a non-Asian background will soon notice that certain customs and values differ considerably from those in their home country. In a business environment, the dress code is often the only thing which remains on the fairly informal side. However, this depends on specific employers and industries.
Women should bear in mind that a considerable percentage of the population comes from an Islamic background and may therefore stray on the conservative side of fashion, particularly in a business environment.
When it comes to greeting people, a nod and a smile usually suffice, especially between members of the opposite sex. Shaking hands is acceptable among men, but for religious reasons, some women prefer not to be touched by men. Physical contact in general is to be avoided, as it can be perceived as a sign of lacking respect for the individual.
Respect and Hierarchies
Respect, both for others and for oneself, is the all-governing principle in interpersonal relations in Singapore. It is vital to never “lose face” or to shame another person. This can happen very easily, for example, by expressing anger or by allowing a junior employee to deal with a senior.
Hierarchy and formality thus play a big part in business relations, and you should always be aware of status, rank and the correct title of the person you are dealing with. Unless they ask to do otherwise, people should be addressed with their title and surname.
Women make up more than 50 % of Singapore´s workforce. However, although formally enjoying equal rights, they are mostly employed in lower wage positions than their male colleagues.
Business Dinners
Good personal relationships are rather important between business associates in Singapore. It is thus advisable to always accept dinner invitations from business contacts. While Chinese people tend to dine out on such occasions, people from other cultural backgrounds may prefer to entertain at home.
Small gifts are appreciated on such occasions, but be aware of cultural and religious customs when choosing a gift. In general, giving business presents should be avoided as it can be mistaken for bribery, but invitations should be reciprocated if possible.
Join the leading
Expat Community in Singapore
- Have access to high-quality expat guides and information
- Get to know like-minded expatriates in Singapore
- Meet fellow expats at InterNations events and activities in your area
Membership at InterNations is invitation-only. You need to request an invitation to become a member.
