With low tax regimes, an easy business registration process, a lot of skilled labor, an affluent population, and very minimal corruption, Singapore is one of the best places to start and do business. You may also want to work there in one of the fast growing sectors, such as manufacturing, telecommunications, construction, and so on. As a foreigner, it can be easy to get a job in the island city if you work with Singapore job consultancies, as opposed to looking for a job on your own. These consultancies have much experience with job placement, qualifications requirements, visa issues, and other relevant matters that you may not be aware of as a non-resident.
If you get an opportunity to go to Singapore on a business trip, you need to familiarize yourself with some things. Here are some crucial tips for your business trip in the city-state:
How to stay connected
Staying connected in this country, which is a destination for corporate travel across the globe, is easily achieved thanks to the presence of many international mobile companies that have established roaming services. Nevertheless, for a longer stay or frequent visits to Singapore, it would be economical to buy a local SIM card, which you can easily do by showing your passport. You will also easily get Internet services, as there are cafes and accommodation facilities that offer easy access. You can use telephone cards (and sometimes credit cards) for public telephone booths, which you can use in case of emergency.
Means of transport
When you land in Singapore, most likely in Singapore Changi Airport, you can take a taxi from the airport to the downtown area or the city. You can also take the bus or train from the airport. Taxis are more expensive than the bus and train, so make your choice carefully. To move around the city to attend business meetings, the train is the best option due to its reliability and affordability. Taxis may be an issue during peak hours, and the cost will be high—especially considering traffic jams, which add to the metered fare rates.
Accommodation
Travelers on business trips generally find convenient accommodation in the Marina Bay area and the downtown core, or alternatively in the Orchard Road belt. The majority of the main hotel chains are located downtown and in the Marina Bay area. Also, these areas offer some of the best views of the skyline, in addition to marvelous dining choices.
Great places to visit or activities to do
Singapore is never short of fun places to visit, such as the Gardens by the Bay, the Botanic Gardens, and the National Museum. You should not leave before going on the Singapore Flyer, the giant Ferris wheel that gives you breathtaking views of the city. You could also visit Chinatown to experience some cultural aspects. Also, temples and mosques are great places to visit for religious activities.
Behavior and social rules
While on a visit to Singapore, you should respect the local culture and the attitude of the residents. Some social rules that you should observe are:
Be on time– Not keeping time, especially for a business meeting, is taken as disrespectful.
Avoid over-displaying your emotions and actions– Overeating or being offended or irritated is seen as rude, and may make you lose respect. Always keep your cool.
Public displays of affection are not acceptable– It is okay to shake hands with people, but too many public displays of affection are frowned upon.
Age and positions/roles– You are expected to honor age and hierarchy in Singapore.
Business cards- It is normal to exchange business cards in business and social meetings, so you should come prepared with enough of your own cards. Also, you must show some interest in each card you get by not immediately putting it away. Finally, you receive the cards with both hands, as you should do with money.
