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About the Isle of Man - The People
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Key Concepts
The Manx are similar to the English, are renowned
for their politeness and courtesy. This is a key element of the
culture and is a fundamental aspect of the communication style.
When doing business in the Isle of Man 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. The Manx people
show similar reserve and constraint. In Manx culture open displays
of emotion, positive or negative are rare and should be avoided.
During meetings, this means your Manx colleagues will approach business
with an air of formality and detachment.
Humour -
a vital element in all aspects of Manx 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 Isle of Man is renowned for its Viking history
and strong sense of tradition supported by a long-established system
of government and economic stability dating back over 1,000 years.
» 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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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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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 businesses to employ
younger than anticipated members who are deal makers.
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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 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 Manx will not hesitate to speak their minds, or disagree,
and generally businessmen like to establish long lasting business
relationships.
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In the Isle of Man it is customary to use
first names almost immediately when conducting business with
colleagues and business associates.
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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 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. 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 dress code is generally conservative
and the norm for both men and women is to wear smart, well tailored
attire using darker colours. Many companies have now introduced
more “dressed down” attire but this generally relates
to the high tech and core industries.
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