What to wear
Corporate dressing in Singapore is not too formal. Males can put on light long-sleeves shirts with a tie, but skipping the tie also doesn’t make one out of place. However, when attending formal meetings, males should consider wearing coats and ties. Male should partner their long-sleeves with matching corporate trousers, not jeans. Leather should for males are also suggested. Female employees should wear lightweight attire that may vary from light-colored corporate dresses or long-sleeves on top of office skirts. This may be matched with either formal sandals or closed shoes.

What to expect
Singaporeans prefer establishing a relationship first with their business counterparts. Expect that meetings don’t immediately dive into the subject matter, instead, locals would insist on doing small chitchats to know you better. On matters about decision making, locals in the country are reserved and slow moving. Be patient during negotiations and value the time that they insist to establish rapport first. Singaporeans shouldn’t be rushed, even during discussions, they usually take 10 to 15 seconds to respond as they value times of silence to contemplate responses.

What you should know
Business culture in Singapore is hierarchical in nature. The age and the position of a person is valued more than skills and abilities. When in a meeting, you are required to acknowledge the most senior amongst your counterparts, and this goes the same when meeting them in the office. One should also note that senior executives play a big role in decision making. Despite being ‘group-oriented’ people, most decisions are often approved by the ones in position.

Female expats have no issue working in Singapore. Although women are expected to be performers at work while taking most of the household responsibilities, it may not apply to those whose family doesn’t reside in the country. The gap between genders in the corporate setting is hardly visible since both males and females are able to apply for a job in the office and both have equal chances of landing a position regardless of the gender.

Another thing you should be aware of are the corporate leaves you are entitled to. Below is a tabulated list of leaves and corporate holidays being enjoyed by employees working in Singapore.