4 things Not to Do in a Business Deal

Irwin See
Aug 22
3 min read

From a Singapore’s perspective we always need to close deals fast, spending time over zoom is so much more efficient than face to face meetings and long lunches are a waste of time.

Yet, time and again, people fall into common traps that jeopardize what could have been successful partnerships. Here are four things you should never do in a business dealing…. Based on what we’ve seen our client behavior.

1. Don’t Be Pushy

There’s a difference between being persistent and being pushy. Pushing someone into a decision, rushing them to sign, or insisting they follow your timeline without flexibility can instantly sour the interaction. Clients and partners want to feel in control of their decisions, not bullied into them.

Pushiness can often stem from a sense of desperation or overconfidence, both of which are unattractive in business. Respect the other party’s need to evaluate, ask questions, and take time. When you let the conversation flow naturally, you create space for trust to grow, and that is far more valuable than an early signature.

2. Don’t Be Transactional

Business is not just about exchanging money for goods or services; it’s about building partnerships. When you approach a deal purely as a transaction — a one-time win — it shows. You may focus only on price, contracts, or deliverables, while ignoring the human connection behind the deal.

People want to work with those they like, trust, and feel understood by. By treating each interaction as part of a long-term relationship rather than a quick transaction, you open the door to future opportunities, referrals, and goodwill.

3. Don’t Be Rude

This may sound obvious, but rudeness often shows up in subtle ways — dismissive comments, interrupting, not acknowledging people’s input, or looking at your phone during a meeting. These small behaviors send a loud message: “I don’t value your time.”

In international business, this becomes even more important. What may be seen as “directness” in one culture can be seen as arrogance in another. Showing respect — by being polite, punctual, and professional. Listen actively to their concerns — is not just good manners; it’s good business. People remember how you made them feel.

4. Don’t Turn a Deaf Ear — Listen

One of the most powerful things you can do in a business meeting is listen. Many people make the mistake of walking into a room with their pitch rehearsed, their answers prepared, and their minds closed. They talk more than they ask, and they assume rather than inquire.

Listening shows humility. It shows that you value the other person’s perspective and that you’re willing to adapt. More importantly, it helps you learn — about their needs, their concerns, and how best to serve them.

A successful business dealing isn’t about dominating the room — it’s about connecting with the person across the table. Don’t be pushy. Don’t be transactional. Don’t be rude. And above all, don’t stop listening. When you operate with respect, empathy, and openness, you build not just deals — but relationships that last.

About Us

Curt & Co Pte Ltd is a consulting company started amongst a group of business owners who were looking for a consulting company themselves for advice !

Our offices and our focus markets are in Philippines, Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam and Malaysia. With clients ranging from 1 man operating SMEs to listed companies, we are proud to have helped our clients across different industries gain market entry into the South East Asian region.