matt heng

BUS 302-01 Twitter Project
Matt Heng - Singapore

[matt heng @MHBus302]

Check out my latest blog post, where I talk about my developing fashion sense, as well as a few brands that I've really clicked with over the years! #cpbus453
https://t.co/cpBe44hkJ9

[matt heng @MHBus302]

@Delaineybus453 @elnazbus453 My girlfriend just got a cat - she's a 12yo Norwegian Forest mix! I'm finally starting to warm up to cats because of her 🥺 #cpbus453

[matt heng @MHBus302]

@TravisTysor Great read! What are some cryptos that you're keeping an eye on for the future? (non-financial advice 🤣) #cpbus453

[matt heng @MHBus302]

This tweet is late, but that's okay because Prof. Hillman is a kind, forgiving soul!🥺 #cpbus453

[matt heng @MHBus302]

The concept of "face" plays a significant role in Singaporean business, much like that in other Asian countries. Avoid publicly correcting or disagreeing with superiors, as this causes them to lose face. This humiliation can result in bitterness and even missed promotions!

[matt heng @MHBus302]

When gesturing to something, don't point at it with a single finger, or with your feet. Both can be seen as rude for a multitude of reasons - instead, use an open hand to avoid any potential issues.

[matt heng @MHBus302]

These cases are generally more casual settings, including those where food is served. Don't blame me if you're in hot water for being late to a board meeting!

[matt heng @MHBus302]

On punctuality: as expected, generally, you shouldn't look to keep people waiting. Tardiness can be considered a great insult to some. However, in certain circumstances, one might instead opt to be a few minutes late in order not to look overly eager or anxious.

[matt heng @MHBus302]

To expand upon the negotiations process, understand that it can definitely take some time. Many business professionals in Singapore wait as long as 10-15 seconds before responding to someone, in order to communicate both seriousness and thoughtfulness in their reply.

[matt heng @MHBus302]

A lot of my peers have discussed the topic of gift-giving in the business environment. In Singapore, this practice isn't nearly as prevalent, as it can be construed as a kind of bribery.

[Tia Bentivegna @bentivegna_tia]

While in the United States, it is generally not business practice to complement a woman's looks, this is considered a "gallant" or chivalrous act in Italian business culture. Being complemented on your appearance and style is accepted and appreciated in Italy for women.

[matt heng @MHBus302]

Singaporeans in business can definitely identify with hierarchical management. In fact, this style is so common that managers' orders are rarely questioned. Asking for too much clarification can actually indicate that the task was not properly explained!

[Katie Dunlop @KatieDunlop18]

Hierarchy is an important part of Russian culture, and it is not uncommon for those with power to visibly display it. In business negotiations, it is always a good idea to show deference and be formal at all times.

[matt heng @MHBus302]

That's an interesting take on handling pollution! In Singapore, one looking to purchase a new car needs to first acquire a Certificate of Transportation. These licenses are intentionally expensive in order to incentivize citizens to take public transport instead of buying cars.

[Kritika @Kritika348]

Norway has the largest number of electric cars per capita in the world. Owners of electric vehicles in Norway receive large tax breaks and reduced fees on other transportation fares. This is in order to preserve the gorgeous natural environment.

[matt heng @MHBus302]

Singapore also celebrates Lunar New Year! Unfortunately, COVID-19 made this year's gatherings a bit more complicated, but with masks and proper social distancing, my family and many others were still able to celebrate the important holiday 🎉

[Elizabeth Scholtes @elizscholtes]

On February 12th, South Korea celebrated Lunar New Year, a long standing tradition where family members gather and eat lots of food to celebrate their traditions. After the 1980's, Lunar New Year was officially added to the list of holidays on calendars. #BUS302 @Professor_Hoang

[matt heng @MHBus302]

Interestingly enough, this custom has extended to Singapore! This may be because Singapore was once a British colony, or perhaps we're all just awkward with prolonged eye contact 🤷‍♂️

[Charlotte Henry @charhenry15]

British people tend not to use extended eye contact. Holding eye contact for a long period during conversation is usually not well-received, and the encounter may be perceived as uncomfortable.

[matt heng @MHBus302]

In Singapore, students are expected to learn both English and Mandarin, and are often offered the opportunity to take a third language. Imagine how I felt when I heard that my (at the time) 12-year old cousin already spoke both Mandarin AND Spanish better than me😬

[Timothy Ewing @TimothyEwing17]

In the Netherlands, the ability to speak in multiple languages is highly valued. Students are expected to be fluent in English by the age of 12 and encouraged to learn more languages.

[matt heng @MHBus302]

Some of my personal favorites are fishball noodle, laksa, and roti prata with egg. 😋😋

[matt heng @MHBus302]

Food in Singapore is something that just can't be understated. From a casual lunch at a hawker center with colleagues, to a powerful conference atop the Marina Bay Sands, our cuisine is one part of our culture that undeniably extends to the business world.

[matt heng @MHBus302]

Singapore was declared by Business Insider as "The best place in the world for expats" -- and for good reason! It has a great school system, famously cheap and tasty food, a low crime rate, and year-round tropical weather, just to name a few.

[matt heng @MHBus302]

@cratch_k Very cool! I've never tried a gyro sausage, but I'll be sure to try this out at home one day.