The Singaporean Communication Style: A Guide for Foreign Business Professionals

As a thriving global business hub, Singapore is an important country for those working on the international stage.

For foreigners new to working with the country, understanding potential cultural differences around communication is essential.

As with any country, Singaporeans express their culture through communication and if you are attuned to their way of doing so, it can lead to challenges. 

Here’s 3 things you need to know to help navigate the subtleties of the communication style.

Remember we are making sweeping generalizations about Singapore and that you may also find people that don't fit this picture.

 

 

1. An Indirect Approach

One of the most prominent aspects of Singaporean communication is its indirect nature, especially compared to N. American and N. European styles.

Many Singaporeans, whose culture is greatly influenced by Chinese and Malay norms, avoid direct confrontation or overt expressions of disagreement. This can be confusing for foreigners used to more straightforward communication.

For instance, instead of openly replying “no” to a request, a Singaporean colleague might say, “I’ll think about it” or “I’ll get back to you.” These phrases might not mean a genuine intention to follow up but are rather polite ways of softening a rejection.

It’s important to learn to read between the lines and to pay attention to what is not said or spoken.

Communication Tip: If you're unclear about a response, ask open questions to confirm whether your message has been understood or if a task will indeed be completed. Avoid pressuring for immediate answers, as this may come across as too direct or even aggressive.

 

2. Respect for Authority

Singaporean workplaces reflect the culture they live in and, as with society, there is a strong tendency to show respect to hierarchy.

This is rooted in both Confucian and Islamic values, where deference to authority is important. Seniority, whether by age or position, carries weight, and this reflects in how communication is structured.

For example, junior employees might be hesitant to speak up in meetings if a senior person has expressed an opinion. Even if they disagree, they may not voice their thoughts immediately to avoid disrespect. In contrast, N. American business environments often encourage open dialogue and debate, regardless of rank.

Communication Tip: If you are in a leadership position, encourage feedback from your team in different ways and emphasize that all perspectives are welcome. Create an environment where your Singaporean colleagues feel comfortable sharing their thoughts, especially if they differ from those in higher positions.

 

3. Harmony and Consensus

Singaporean culture places a high value on harmony and avoiding conflict, especially in group settings.

This means that decision-making in Singaporean organisations may take longer, as there is often an emphasis on achieving consensus. While this approach fosters collaboration, it can sometimes be seen as slow by foreigners who are used to more individualistic decision-making processes.

In a meeting, a Singaporean colleague or client may avoid voicing disagreements to maintain harmony, even if they have reservations. This can be puzzling for some foreigners who may perceive the lack of open discussion as a sign of apathy or agreement, when it’s more about preserving relationships and face.

Communication Tip: Be patient during discussions and check in with team members after meetings to ensure they are comfortable with any decisions made. Singaporeans may be more willing to express their true opinions in one-on-one conversations, where the pressure to conform to group harmony is reduced.

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Working with Singaporeans requires an understanding of their indirect communication style, respect for hierarchy, and the value they place on harmony and group consensus.

By being patient, respectful, and attentive to both verbal and non-verbal cues, foreign professionals can navigate Singapore’s business culture successfully. While there may be some initial cultural adjustments, embracing the nuances of Singaporean communication will help foster strong working relationships and a productive work environment.