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United Kingdom Protocol Doing Business Cross-Culturally • Internationally speaking, it still pays to “think globally and act locally.” • Whenever traveling abroad, it always helps to understand the people and culture you are about do enter business with so as not to be misunderstood. • Some facts to be aware of: The country is referred to as “the UK of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Great Britain is comprised of England/ Scotland and Wales. When you add Northern Ireland, then it becomes the U.K. Go figure! • While the term “WASP” is generally regarded in the U.S. as slang, “White Anglo Saxon Protestants” still make up the largest part of the U.K.’s population. • If you know The Queen’s Birthday, you will make big points: celebrated the 2nd Saturday in June with much pomp and circumstance! • Language: It can be tough navigating the English dialects. Like the foundation of its royalty, its language is Germanic. Princess Diana was actually more “blue blooded’ than Prince Charles as she was English to the core. • How the Brits view themselves: Civilized, well-mannered, well educated. Frankly, I think the protocol and tradition is all they have going for them. They are generally an understated people, cool, detached, often hard to read and very class conscious. The Business Meeting • Britain is still very much a man’s world, but the emphasis of the new generation is on change. For example, working women are now entitled to 18 weeks of maternity leave, 8 weeks more than the US. Further, women constitute more than half the work force, making them visible in many fields. • Tip: If meeting with a female counterpart, the vast majority of British women use their titles (Ms. Miss Mrs.). If you don’t know which honorific to use, don’t presume to know. The women in question may be offended if you do. • If possible, arrange your meetings ahead of time. And also let your counterparts how much time you think you’ll need for your meeting. Sending material in advance is also a good idea as is confirmation of your meeting via email, facsimile or the like. • Tip: Avoid being to in charge. At this time, let the Brits hold the home turf. • Presenting your Business: Be diffident, but efficient. Don’t rush, never dictate and don’t make large presumptions. The Brits like facts. They are also quite formal. Small talk is ok (weather, your trip to London, etc.) but don’t get too casual. When they ask questions make comments, take notes. • Concluding the Meeting: It’s your move here. Their reluctance to end a meeting may be a sign not to be seen as rude. Be a closer without being too abrupt. • Meeting Guidelines Arrive early; call the meeting to order within a few minutes of introductions, introduce yourself and other teammates; give a brief reason for the meeting/ subject matter; describe what you hope to accomplish; run things with formality and efficiency; allow for q&a; sum up what has been accomplished; review major points and deadlines; and follow-up with a note summarizing the meeting. Take notes!! Communication Styles • Like most cultures, there are subtle nuances when conducting a meeting. The Brits are much like the Americans in that they seem relaxed in meetings (but posture is always good), smile and make positive gestures. However, they are always in control. • Tips: The British handshake is weak but don’t be put off by it; touching is considered to personal so be formal; don’t speak loudly or often; don’t stare or glare; stand for introductions and like in the US, women always cross their legs at the ankle, not the knees. It’s better for posture and breathing!! Customs 1. Reading “The Brits” • The Brits can be difficult to read, and they like it that way!! Showing mention is assign of weakness, thus understatement is the preferred manner of communication. • Their gestures or expressions may lead you to believe either you’re in full agreement or all is a foregone conclusion. It could go either way!
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Lisa M. Grotts |
