about uk business culture

1.Business practices in the UK

• Business meetings in the UK are often structured but not too formal and begin and end with social conversation.
• First names are used almost immediately with all colleagues. Exceptions are very senior managers. However, you should always wait to be invited to use first names before doing so yourself.
• Business cards are an essential prop and are usually exchanged.
• Negotiations and decisions are usually open and flexible. Your British counterparts will favour a win/win approach.

2.British business etiquette (Do's and Don'ts)

• DO respect personal space. The British value their space and keeping an acceptable distance is advised.
• DO remember to shake hands on first meetings. It is considered polite to do so.
• DO make direct eye-contact with your British counterpart, however remember to keep it to a minimum or it could be considered impolite or rude.
• DON'T ask personal questions regarding your British counterpart's background, occupation or income.
• DON'T underestimate the importance of humour in all aspects of business in the UK.
• DON'T forget that instructions are often disguised as polite requests.