Singapore
Singapore has a population of 5,4 million with a population growth of 1.993% in 2011, and is very densely populated. There are a lot of different Asian cultures in Singapore which gives them the name “Instant Asia”, but there is a majority of Chinese people who are also very active in business. There is a lot of Western influences in Singapore which gives them the ability to speak English, or also called “Singlish”.
Business relationships are really essential in Singapore, therefore it is necessary to network and meet new people in order to build an image of trustworthy and reliability. Relationships are more valued than the companies, and spending personal free time is expected which include for example dining, and playing golf.
Singapore has a high level of power distance that can be seen in all the rules they have to follow which are very strict and can result in a heavy fine if someone does not obey the law. The government involves itself in every aspect of society which means there is a lot of control in Singapore, and makes the country one of the cleanest and safest place in the world. Also, the high power distance can be found in the workforce, where the head of the company is the sole decision maker. When planning a meeting it is important to send officials from equal rank, since it can be insulting and damaging to the business relationships. The oldest and highest ranking people are introduced first due to the respect people need to have for seniority.
Women are getting more advanced in the workforce and are representing a growing segment which means that Singapore is a feminine country. Most women can be found in the manufacturing, or administrative industry, but there is a growing force of women that are getting into business management and government work which means that social genders are overlapping each other. Since Singapore is more feminine, they are more modest, tender, and concerned with the quality of life where it is more important to be kind and cooperative than winning. However, this should not be mistaken for weakness.
Singapore can be seen as a collectivist since they are very close and committed to family, and are also taking care of their extended family which is more important than the individual. They want to maintain harmony in the family, therefore they are often avoiding a conflict in public to save each other’s face which have to be respected. When communicating, it is important to read between the lines in order to get the true meaning, because the people in Singapore are always trying to be polite and see everything in a positive way. Even when business is being moderate, they will say that sales are successful.
The uncertainty avoidance is really low in Singapore which means the people feel less threatened by unknown situations. Therefore, they tend to be more open to risk and innovations, and are driven by family, success, future, and education. They are motivated by prosperity which can be seen in the luxury cars people are driving, and they are accepting the strict rules as a worthwhile trade-off for prosperity.
Mexico
Mexico has a population of almost 115 million with a population growth rate of 1,086% in July 2011, and is still growing rapidly. It has a proud history and culture with Spanish as the official language, although English is also understood among educated people. Almost 90% of the population is Roman Catholic, whereas only 5% is Protestants.
Before business can be done in Mexico, it is essential to know that personal relationships are more important than schedules, and are key to business success. These schedules and appointments can even be cancelled due to family problems which already shows that family is highly valued in Mexico. Therefore, being patient is a must since the Mexicans embrace the mañana syndrome which means why do something today that can be postponed to tomorrow, so the Mexicans will have long lunch breaks and are often late since this is “the will of God”. It is highly recommended that appointments will be scheduled in the morning. It can be stated that Mexico has a high context culture since they value relationships much more than tasks.
Also, when doing business in Mexico, it is important to make an attempt to learn the Spanish language which will be highly appreciated, and means someone is making an effort to know the Mexican culture. It can be considered as a social norm and maintains social harmony which makes Mexico a collectivist, where it is key to be committed and loyal in order to develop a close, and long-term business relationship.
Mexico has a high power distance which means that there is a high level of expectation of inequality and power differences. This can be seen in Mexico due to the fact that they always dress their best, and are dressed really formal compared to the Americans. Attention to appearance is very important, as well as staying in a high quality hotel which shows a positive image. They are very status conscious, therefore it is important to address senior managers first, and give a strong and firm handshake in the beginning of the meeting. Also, the right professional titles, courtesy titles, and names should be used correctly since it is part of the Mexican formality.
There are three contacts that can be important in Mexico which are the Chambers of Commerce, investment bankers, government officials and professionals. These local contacts can help companies with government relations and legal matters, since there are a lot of rules and regulations which gives Mexico a high level of Uncertainty Avoidance. This can also be seen in the best way to make initial contact which is writing a letter since the Mexican business people are less likely to accept a phone call of someone they have never met. Also, they avoid criticism in the face of others since it can damage a persons image in front of other people.
The gender roles in Mexico are changing, but they are still considered to have a masculine culture since men are expected to be aggressive, strict, and promiscuous whereas women have to be dependent, maternal, and submissive. They are more advanced in human rights and status than a few years ago. They are increasing the number of women in the workforce, and are improving conditions for themselves and other women in order to compete in the survival of the fittest theory.