Singapore has four official languages: English, Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil. [1] Verbal communication in Singapore is generally direct and respectful, using titles like "Mr." or "Ms." and speaking clearly. [2] Nonverbal communication like eye contact and greetings also demonstrate respect through behaviors like brief eye contact and presenting business cards with two hands. [3] Business entertainment usually occurs in restaurants, with the host ordering food and assigning seating. Guests should wait to be seated and always compliment the food.

1. Singapore Communicating

3. Verbal Communication English is the prominent language The common greeting would be “have you eaten today?” or “did you have lunch?” Speak loud and clear Never shout Titles such as “Doctor” are used whenever applicable Address any person by Mr. or Ms followed by last name. First name is equally common but avoid using it when addressing a person who is way older than you because it is expected to give seniors and someone much older “face” and respect Other language : Malay, Hindi, Mandarin, or other Chinese dialect.

4. Nonverbal communication Maintain short eye contact to avoid being rude Greet with a handshake that is not too firm or strong After handshake, present your business card (business card should be in English, has your name, and address) with both hands to show signs of respect. NEVER toss your card across the table! When you receive someone else’s card, study it to show signs of respect. NEVER write notes on someone’s card.

5. Business Entertainment Most entertainment are done in restaurants, rarely at someone’s home It is customary for the host to order food and assign seating. A guest should always wait to be seated. Pre-meal drinks and appetizer are uncommon. Sea food is usually at the top of the list of food. You can impress your host if you know how to use the chopsticks Always compliment the host for the food even when you dislike the food.

6. Alcohol? Alcohol is pretty expensive Beer and wine are readily available and socially acceptable * Observe if your host’s religion, especially if he/she is Islamic because you don’t want to put them on the spot.

7. Acceptable Topics of Conversation If in doubt, just follow the conversation leads of the party Work related questions Pay compliments on appearance or achievements Talk about food Recent travels or plans for the future Advances in Singapore’s economy

8. Unacceptable Topics of Conversation Local or regional politics Personal questions on age or income Conversations on religion Conversations on race Do not criticize any part of Singapore Avoid gossips about a specific person, even when it is started by someone else

9. Value/Beliefs All sorts of people, all sorts of value and beliefs Most importantly, Singaporeans are very proud of their country and achievements 1.) Nation before community and society before self 2.) Family is a basic unit of society 3.)Community supports and respects individual 4.)Consensus not conflict ( stress compromise and national unity) 5.)Racial and religious harmony

10. Gift Giving Singaporeans are very proud of their corrupt free state in Asia, the giving of money and bribery is not allowed It is customary to give gifts during festive season such as Chinese New Year. It is always nice to bring something typical from home You should be careful which type of gifts not to bring if your host is … Chinese- do not bring food unless agreed before hand. Doing so will implied that the host’s hospitality was inadequate . Also avoid giving clocks and anything with number 4. Malay (Islamic)– do not bring pork/alcohol/ pictures of dogs or nudity Indian – avoid flowers and beef To appear polite people would usually refuse the gift and then accept it to not appear greedy Do not unwrap your gift to avoid appearing greedy, say thank you and set it aside.

11. Example of Public Behavior Littering and spitting are frowned upon and carry hefty fines if caught Smoking is prohibited in all public buildings and transportation Eye contact are brief (too much is deemed rude) Avoid shouting at all cost Stand at arms length Avoid pointing with your forefingers Feet are believed to be unclean, never kick or touch anything with your feet When beckoning someone, never have palm up (palms should be down and hands in a scoping motion). Standing with your hands at your hips is seen as an aggressive behavior Singaporeans line up for everything, it is very rude to cut in line. Should always obey the law.