Your essential guide to understanding Singapore's diverse corporate culture
Avoid making any faux pas which could hinder your corporate life. JASSMIN PETER speaks to top Human Resource professionals who highlight the cultural norms and no-nonsense approach of the Asian workplace.
Being a cosmopolitan society and an Asian hub, Singapore is heavily influenced by western culture yet maintains its conservative roots in many areas. This mix of traditional Asian values and modern lifestyle choices can sometimes be overwhelming if you're new to the Lion City. However, an opportunity to work in Singapore's fast-paced society is something you should embrace. It's a great way to boost your portfolio, gain new experiences, meet people from different cultures and gain a fresh perspective - it could even be one of your life's best experiences. So, instead of focusing on the small quirks, view challenges as making sense of the world in a different way.
Good communication goes beyond just sharing a common language. Find common ground to build better understanding and open communication with colleagues. Ultimately it's all about your attitude - increase your awareness and level of acceptance and allow yourself to engage positively with others from all walks of life.
Regional Director, Randstad Singapore and Malaysia.
- When introducing yourself to someone, find out how the person wishes to be addressed. Calling someone on a first name basis - especially if it's someone of authority and seniority - can make the person feel uncomfortable or come across as disrespectful.
- Age automatically commands respect in most Asian cultures. So, managers with years of experience might expect a healthy level of respect.
- Although those accustomed to working in multinational companies (MNCs) may display more frankness than others, never dismiss or belittle the ideas of your manager in front of your team. This could severely damage your relationship with the person.
- While an aggressive communication style may be common in a western boardroom, a calmer demeanour is more acceptable in many Asian countries - even when expressing disagreement. Singaporeans usually don't outwardly express disagreement and a direct "no" during an argument is very uncommon. Instead, settle this subtly in a private conversation.
- The western context of humour is often misunderstood or not understood at all. If you're new to Singapore, it's best to avoid being humorous in the workplace until you get to know your colleagues better.
- Self-praise is usually frowned upon. Play up any team or organisational successes. This lets your co-workers know you value being part of the team and respect your team members.
- Questioning authority directly is something modern Singaporean organisations are embracing as compared to the more traditional and conservative organisations.
Cheryl Mah
Senior Marketing & Communications Executive, Adecco Singapore.
- During a meeting, it's usually the most senior colleague who'll begin the meeting and set the tone. Also remember to never swear during a meeting - it's usually unnecessary and offensive.
- Dress formally. For men, a tie isn't always necessary but put some thought into the company you're working for. Find out if they have a relaxed dress code and what's the norm. Try not to stand out. If in doubt, ask!
- Blatant displays of wealth such as wearing ostentatious jewellery can sometimes be off-putting. Tone down where necessary.
- If you're having a company dinner at a Chinese restaurant, try something from each course. Arrive on time and don't leave early as this can be interpreted negatively.
- Keep your drinking in check and never overdo it - you'll regret it in more ways than one.
- Remain professional at all times. Just because you're outside of the office, doesn't mean you're outside of the corporate environment. Act professionally at all times.
Chris Mead
General Manager, Hays Singapore.
- When communicating be very direct but soft-spoken and not aggressive. If accent your speaking voice with a lot of gestures, be careful not to point at anyone with your index finger or pound your fist into your hand.
- Use both hands to accept and offer a business card and take a moment to read the card - don't just glance at it and put it aside.
- Don't publicly discuss disagreements about decisions - schedule a private meeting with the relevant person.
- Presenting gifts to clients is socially acceptable and generally expected during special occasions such as Chinese New Year. Outside of these times, it's culturally acceptable to give gifts provided they're acceptable and not too expensive, otherwise it can lead to embarrassment and the connotation that something extra is implied by the giving of the gift.
- Socialising with colleagues outside working hours happens regularly, but given Singapore's geographically small business district, poor behaviour can have long-term consequences on your career.
Need some career guidance?
Gain some valuable insights from these Human Resource organisations...
Adecco Asia Pacific www.adecco-asia.com
Hays www.hays.sg
Randstad www.randstad.com.sg
Posted Nov 2011
