Singapore

= Singapore = == Before I start talking about the business etiquette in Singapore, I will tell you a little bit about the place. Singapore is located in Southeast Asia on the islands between Malaysia and Indonesia. It's population as of (July 2004) was 4,353,893. In Singapore the ideas of groups, harmony, and mutual security are more important than the individual. The family is the centre of the social structure and represents unity, loyalty, and respect. Also a lot of communication is done through non-verbal actions. Like facial expressions, body language, and body position.Singapore has four main languages, Mandarin, Malay, Tamil and English. For business and politics, English is the language of choice. Now onto the business etiquette. 76% Chinese 14% Malay 7% Indian 1% other
 * Business Etiquette in Singapore:**
 * The people**

Buddhist Muslim Christian Hindu Sikh Taoist Confucianist When greeting someone there are some protocols that must be followed. Most introductions are done in the order of age or status. Younger people who work for multi-national corporations shake hands. Men and women shake hands but usually a nod and smile is sufficient. When two women meet the nod to each other.
 * Religions**
 * Greetings:**

On the occasion that a gift will be given there are a few simple rules about it.
 * Gift Giving**
 * A gift may be refused three times, which shows that the recipient is not greedy.
 * Do not give scissors, knives, or cutting utensils. They indicate that you want to end the relationship.
 * Do not give clocks, hankerchiefs, or straw sandals, since they are associated with death.
 * Offer gifts with only your right hand or both hands if it is large.
 * Gifts are not opened when received.


 * Business**
 * When asked a question do not answer to hastily for the reason that you might get it wrong. Try and wait about 15 seconds before answering.
 * In Singapore "yes" does not always mean "yes". It could be said in this manner if the feelings about the topic are in different views of the individual.
 * Singaporeans are tough on things like money, or business due dates.
 * When given a compliment it is usual to humbly deny it or disagree.
 * When business talk gets sterted Singaporeans get straight to the point, and make many decisions quickly.
 * Be on time to a meeting. A call should be made if you know you are going to be late. Arriving late with no notice is rude and disrespectful.

Personal relationships are the cornerstone of all business relationships. Once you are recognized as part of the group you will be accpeted and expected to follow all the unwritten rules of the group.
 * Business Relationships**
 * Always be respectful when dealing with others.
 * Respect rank, the oldest of the group is the most important.
 * Have a soft spoken attitude and remain calm.
 * Watch your body language and facial expressions.


 * Business Meeting Etiquette**
 * Any and all apointments should be made 2 weeks in advance.
 * The most formal way to scheduale a meeting is by writing the person concerned.
 * Arrive on time.
 * There is a period of small talk before business talk begins.
 * When asking questions, ask after the presentation is over and smile when the question is asked.
 * Presentations are followed by backup material. ex. charts, figures.
 * Never disagree or criticize someone of senior authority.
 * Pay attention to non-verbal communication.


 * Body Language**
 * People in Singapore believe that the head is sacred and shouldnt be touched, whether it is a child or an adult.
 * To be noticed, raise your hand.
 * Feet are seen as "dirty" so, it would be wrong to point a foot at someone.
 * Watch hand movements. Hands one the hips while talking to someone usually means anger.
 * To no be rude try to avoid blowing your nose or clearing your throat in public.
 * It is appropiate to cover your mouth when yawning.
 * When crossing legs it is appropriate to put one knee over the other.
 * Clothing**
 * Mostly casual in many occasions.
 * When doing business men wear a white shirt, tie, and slacks.
 * Women in business wear sleeved blouses and a skirt or suitpants.


 * Negotiations**
 * Always wait to be told where to sit. There are strict rules in following the seating process.
 * Negotiations are very slow and are not a quickly as decision making.
 * Decisions are consenus driven.
 * Do not lose your temper, you could lose or damage the relationship that has been made.

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 * Some other helpful hints**
 * Do not jaywalk
 * Dont smoke in air-conditioned buildings
 * Do not bring in drugs
 * Do not litter
 * Not allowed to sell or use chewing gum

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