| About
Britain -The People
» Key
Concepts
The British, in particular the English, are renowned
for their politeness and courtesy. This is a key element of British
culture and is a fundamental aspect of British communication style.
When doing business in the UK you generally find that direct questions
often receive evasive responses and conversations may be ambiguous
and full of subtleties. Consequently, it is important to pay attention
to tone of voice and facial expression, as this may be an indication
of what is really meant.
The term “Stiff Upper Lip” is often
used to describe the traditionally British portrayal of reserve
and restraint when faced with difficult situations. In British culture
open displays of emotion, positive or negative are rare and should
be avoided. During meetings, this means your British colleagues
will approach business with an air of formality and detachment.
Humour -
a vital element in all aspects of British life and culture is the
renowned British sense of humour. The importance of humour in all
situations, including business contexts, cannot be overestimated.
Humour is frequently used as a defence mechanism, often in the form
of self-depreciation or irony. It can be highly implicit and in
this sense is related to the British indirect communication style.
The United Kingdom is renowned for its colourful
history and strong sense of tradition that has been shaped by colonial
empire, both civil and European wars and a constitutional monarchy,
supported by a long-established system of government and economic
stability.
» Business
Practice and Etiquette
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The average working week is 9.00am to 5.30pm.
However, many executives work longer hours.
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British business protocol and tradition
demands punctuality when attending meetings. It is also best
practice to arrange appointments several days in advance.
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UK businesses now deploy “Flat Hierarchical
Structures” where the only divide is between managers
and other ranks.
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It is now common for British businesses
to employ younger than anticipated members who are deal makers.
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British businessmen generally favour the
establishment of pool working relationships with their subordinates.
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Business entertaining can be conducted during
any meal and generally whoever initiates is expected to pay.
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It is customary to always shake hands. When
being introduced or when meeting someone, as well as when leaving.
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Business cards are welcomed in business
culture and are generally exchanged at the end of business meetings.
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During initial meetings British business
people will be generally cool, calm and give little away as
to their intentions. It is not uncommon for the quietest member
of a meeting to carry the most influence.
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Once business relations have been established
the British will not hesitate to speak their minds, or disagree,
and generally British businessmen like to establish long lasting
business relationships.
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In Britain it is customary to use first
names almost immediately when conducting business with colleagues
and business associates.
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British businessmen to not appreciate hard
sell or aggressive sales techniques and deplore any pressure
that may be applied in the decision making process.
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Misplaced or exaggerated praise is not appreciated
in British business culture.
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It is considered to be impolite and rude
to maintain eye contact (unless a point is being emphasised),
to stand too close when speaking or to talk loudly. British
businessmen do respect personal space and therefore keeping
an acceptable distance is recommended.
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It is considered rude to ask direct personal
questions about occupation, income and background.
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British business dress code is generally
conservative and the norm for both men and women is to wear
smart, well tailored attire using darker colours. Many British
companies have now introduced more “dressed down”
attire but this generally relates to the high tech and core
industries.
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