Adhering to workplace etiquette in a foreign environment can be daunting for newcomers. Singapore has an eclectic mix of Eastern and Western corporate, cultural practices. While Chinese are the most prominent group, many people are from Malay or Indian backgrounds.
According to the Economist Intelligence Unit’s business ranking, Singapore is at the top and will remain the best geography in the business world. With this fusion of Eastern and Western norms, it is essential to understand the significance of common workplace etiquette expectations to foster long-lasting professional relationships and avoid probable pitfalls.
This blog will explore the most common workplace etiquette slip-ups in a typical Singaporean work environment and share actionable tips to rectify them.
Misinterpreting Hierarchical Respect
In Singapore, hierarchy plays a crucial role in the professional space. In the Western style, decision-making is top-bottom, with the chain of command concentrated with higher-ups. In the easter fashion though, seniority is given due recognition, even if it's not high-ranking. Newcomers usually miss out on this vital aspect of workplace engagement.
How to Tackle It: Address senior colleagues with appropriate titles unless you are allowed permission to use their first name. Allowing senior team members to speak first during meetings is considered respectful, as it is customary in many Asian cultures. This sends out a positive message that you value the opinions of those with more experience or authority. Always remember! During casual conversations, you need to be mindful of the hierarchy. This practice will strengthen the bond and the trust within the team.
Being Too Direct or Confrontational
Singaporeans value harmony and avoid direct conflicts, especially in a professional environment. Speaking too bluntly or expressing disagreements vociferously might be misinterpreted as aggressive or disrespectful. Newcomers often find themselves in a tricky situation when their communication style is overassertive or domineering.
How to Tackle It: Aim for a polite and subtle tone in your conversation. Try incorporating the ‘Sandwich Technique’ by wrapping a negative but constructive criticism between two positive observations. For example, instead of outrightly saying, “I don’t agree with this approach!” consider phrasing it as, “I think this approach has some positive takeaways; perhaps we could explore additional options that complement it.”
Failing to Respect Personal Space
In many Western countries, a formal handshake or a short, polite hug may be acceptable while meeting new colleagues, but Singapore’s norms are a bit more reserved. Although Singaporeans are open and affable, personal boundaries are respected. Excessive show of affection or overly casual behavior may be perceived as invasive or unprofessional.
Most business is conducted in English, and most Singaporeans speak immaculate English. Learning some phrases in Malay out of respect for your hosts could not harm you!
Hello – Selamat
How are you – Apa Khabar
Nice to meet you – Senang berkenalan
My name is… – Nama says…
Thank you – Terima kasih
Please – Tolong
Goodbye – Selamat jalan
How to Tackle It: A simple handshake would suffice when meeting someone for the first time. Being mindful of your colleague’s body language or mannerisms during conversations helps build strong rapport. Maintaining an arm’s length distance, especially during personal communication, makes a good first impression. Be wary of going too personal with your questions while conversing, as Singaporeans value discretion in the workplace.
Ignoring Punctuality and Meeting Etiquette
Punctuality and meeting preparedness are customary in a typical Singaporean work environment. This reflects the nation’s broader worth for efficiency and value for time. Arriving late for meetings, even by a few minutes may be perceived as reckless or disrespectful. Meetings in Singapore follow a well-defined, goal-oriented approach.
How to Tackle it: Ensure you are always on time! Reach your venue a few minutes earlier, if you can. This gives you time to plan the first five minutes to start strong and make any last-minute mental notes that can make your meeting productive. If you are running late, a short apology at the start of the meeting is appreciated.
Neglecting Small Gestures of Politeness
A small gesture of politeness can go a long way in reflecting how you are perceived in the workplace. Singaporeans hold genuine acts of politeness in high regard. Newcomers usually discard these nuances, which can negatively impact their professional relationships.
How to Tackle It: Thanking your colleagues for their valuable time, and contributions in meetings, responding to emails on time, and expressing gratitude for team efforts can help cement positive work relationships and boost productivity. A polite greeting at the start with a courteous sign-off is a cardinal rule of good email etiquette.
Misunderstanding the Work-Life Balance
With Singapore’s fast-paced, demanding work norms, some newcomers feel compelled to match long working hours to validate commitment. However, Singapore companies are redefining work-life balance by working towards providing a harmonious work culture for their employees. Overworking without setting clear-cut work-life boundaries could lead to emotional stress and burnout, affecting productivity.
How to Tackle It: Observe and follow your team’s norms regarding work hours and communication lifestyle outside of office hours. Striking the right balance between your personal and professional work commitments will help improve productivity and adjust smoothly to local expectations.
For a newcomer in Singapore, getting acquainted with its competitive work culture and ethos may seem like a herculean task. But not to fear! If you are calm, mindful, and can adapt well most of the teething problems you face early on will be waved off by your Singaporean hosts. With the help of this guide, you should have your basics sorted to avoid the most appalling ones.
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