An organization bound with various cultures helps employees feel a strong sense of belonging. Today’s generation has blossomed and individual differences have made work more dynamic. With deep-rooted traditions across industries, the work culture in Singapore opens doors to abundant opportunities for those seeking excellent workplaces and career growth.

To enhance employee retention and achieve goals with top talent, this article highlights the cultural values upheld in Singapore’s work culture and how they contribute to success.

What Shapes Singaporean Work-Life?

Businesses and organisations in Singapore promote professionalism and efficiency. They emphasise respect for senior leaders and cultivate collaboration. Moreover, Singapore’s diverse cultural landscape shaped by 74.3% Chinese, 13.5% Malays, and 9% Indians and other nationalities, Singapore stands as a rich tapestry of principles and beliefs. This diversity contributes to a globally competitive workforce that upholds exemplary practices.

When it comes to the recruitment process and career advice, Singapore’s Human Resources follows strict rules and laws set by the government to guarantee fair treatment and legal employment. Key laws include the Employment Act, which outlines basic employment rights; the Central Provident Fund (CPF), for mandatory security savings; the Foreign Manpower Act, for managing foreign workers; Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA), for proper handling of personal information; and lastly, the Work Injury Compensation Act (WICA), for providing medical support in cases of work-related injuries and illnesses.

Here are the norms and cultures upheld in Singapore, along with ways to promote them in the workplace for better service quality:

Supportive and Collaborative Workplace

With various Singapore work cultures, having a supportive and collaborative team helps the company achieve goals through strengthened teamwork among employees. As a result, positive feedback reflects a strong workplace culture based on trust and loyalty. This culture advocates for employee well-being.

Action Steps:

• Provide training and development programs to enhance the skills of employees and acquire industry-related learnings and knowledge.
• Invest in employee engagement and retention by conducting surveys on employee job satisfaction, and recognition programs, and organising collaborative meetings and team-building activities.

Career Opportunities

In a report by Ipsos on the latest insights about the Singaporean workplace, 65% of employees see compensation and benefits as the most important factors in obtaining a job, followed by flexible work arrangements, career development, and job security.

Employees who can work in a team, show off excellent communication skills, and be proactive in making decisions are encouraged in a Singaporean workplace. This approach allows companies to determine the expertise and capabilities of their employees, making them potential candidates for promotions and career opportunities.

Action Steps:

• Review salary ranges, benefits, and flexible work hours.
• Promote remote work in Singapore if applicable.
• Provide importance to managing decisions, innovation, and career development.

Hierarchical Work System

A workplace in Singapore is composed of different generations and cultures. Everyone needs to work professionally and prioritise respect where there is division and level of authority. Seniors are expected to lead by example, drawing from their experiences and treating subordinates with compassion and respect. For colleagues of the same rank but different ages, it’s important to maintain respectful communication at all times.

Action Steps:

• Exemplify professional work ethics among employees from top management to staff.
• Maintain a clear organizational structure that ensures effective communication and provides clear instructions for proper execution.

Disciplinary Rules in the Workplace

Singapore is popular for having a disciplined workforce while maintaining a culturally diverse environment. There are norms and directives strictly implemented to promote dynamic relationships, uphold employees’ reputations, and align with the company’s goals to attract more clients and customers.

Action Steps:

• Implement policies on workspace cleanliness, professional attire, punctuality, attendance, courtesy, and other essential rules to maintain a healthy workplace.
• Ensure compliance with governing laws and welcome legal interventions to preserve proper conduct.

Work Arrangements

Despite high productivity, Singaporean employees often work long hours, raising concerns about the lack of work-life balance. As a result, 29% of employees plan to leave the workplace within a year according to a report.

Action Steps:

• Explore flexible work arrangements to promote the well-being of the employees and boost productivity with minimised supervision.
• Apply for government programs related to work arrangements such as Work-Life Grant (WLG), Enterprise Singapore’s Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG), and other forms of assistance to support effective work arrangements.

Take a chance with Singapore!

Despite competition among businesses, Singapore’s multicultural work environment fosters collaboration. Employees embrace their differences and work together for the betterment of companies.

Expand your company’s adventure with Bossjob, a career platform that prioritizes chat-first interactions for a seamless hiring process for recommended jobs.