Singapore is third most popular destination to which MNCs relocate staff: report

SINGAPORE is the third most popular destination to which multinational companies (MNCs) relocate their employees in 2014, going by international transferee data released by Cartus Corporation, a provider of global relocation services.

The island republic, which made the biggest leap from its sixth spot last year, lost out to the United States and United Kingdom, which took first and second place respectively.

Switzerland, Hong Kong, India, Germany, mainland China, the Netherlands and Canada - in that order - rounded out the top 10 most popular destinations for employee transfers.

Cartus' data was captured in the first half of this year from its worldwide client base, which includes half of all Fortune 50 companies.

Last year, Cartus relocated more than 165,000 transferees into or out of 165 countries.

On its observation of management styles, it had this to say about Singapore managers: "Singaporeans you meet professionally may seem very westernized, but they have an eastern mindset, and respect for hierarchy and 'saving face' are key business drivers."

As for those looking to establish themselves in Hong Kong, remember to bring lots of business cards, Cartus advised: "Business cards are crucial to establishing your identity and your seniority relative to the individual you meet. They are your 'face' to the professional community here; don't leave home without an ample supply of them on hand.''

If the posting is to the United Kingdom, avoid asking new colleagues personal questions, especially in the workplace. A question like "Do you have children?" might seem too personal.

And remember when in China, employees may publicly agree with the most senior leader at a meeting, even if they hold opposing views privately.

This is a stark contrast to employees in the Netherlands, where the task-focus, pragmatic Dutch people believe in communicating directly and mean what they say.