Key Concepts

The population of the Grand Duchy is of approximately 449,000. The Luxembourgers are generally fluent in French, German and English in addition to their mother tongue, Luxembourgish. French is frequently used as the administrative and business language, although German and English are also quite common in business circles.

This multilingualism is also a direct result of the relative small size of the country as well as its association with both France and Germany. When going abroad (which literally is not very far) the Luxembourgers have to speak other languages, simply because their own is not understood elsewhere. It is hardly surprising therefore that many Luxembourgers speak several languages. For those wishing to work in the business areas of Luxembourg it is an essential to speak at least one foreign language.

The Luxembourgers are known for their politeness and intelligence. In addition to their multilingual skills the Luxembourg people have other professional qualities such as punctuality, perseverance, practical approach to business and a capacity for work. Cosmopolitism and diversity of cultures may also be considered to be the main characteristics of the Luxembourgers.

On other hand, Luxembourgers are careful and prudent. They take time before they trust people and approach getting to know you in a deliberate, measured manner, which cannot be rushed.

Business Practice and Etiquette

• The average working week is from 09am to 6pm.
• Appointments should be made 1 to 2 weeks in advance and punctuality is highly emphasised. Meetings adhere to strict timetables.
• In general, the Luxembourg business etiquette is very formal. It is common in Luxembourg business to address partners by their honorific titles, Monsieur or Madame, and their surname.
• Luxembourgers compartmentalize their business and personal lives.
• Building a successful relationship with Luxembourg businesses requires a sincere interest in the country and the people.
• Luxembourgers expect prompt replies to requests for information, price quotes and terms.
• Foreigners who are fluent in the country’s languages are well respected.
• Business attire is formal.
• Greetings are reserved and formal until a relationship has been established. The most common greeting is a brief handshake.
• This is a hierarchical culture, so it is crucial that you show proper respect and deference to those who have attained positions of importance.