英国社会和商业文化

Doing Business in the United Kingdom | UK Social and Business Culture

Doing Business in the United Kingdom | UK Social and Business Culture

A British Culture Overview

Fact file

o Official name – United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern

Ireland

o Population – 60, 270, 708 (July 2004 est.)*

o Official Languages – English, Welsh (about 26% of the population

of Wales), Scottish Gaelic (about 60,000 in Scotland)

o Currency – Pound sterling

o Capital city – London (Wales: Cardiff, Scotland: Edinburgh,

Northern Ireland: Belfast)

o GDP – purchasing power parity $1. 664 trillion (2003 est.)*

GDP Per Capita – purchasing power parity $27,700 (2003 est.)*

Overview

The United Kingdom is a nation of cultural and ethnic persity

consisting of four countries each with a clear identity: England,

Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. A thoroughly multicultural

society, the UK continues to blend its rich cultural heritage with a

modern and innovative outlook. Knowledge and an appreciation of the basic cultural, ethical and business values of the UK is crucial to any organisation wanting to conduct business in such a varied yet traditional country.

British Culture – Key Concepts and values

Indirectness – 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.

‘Stiff upper lip’ – This is a term 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 a colonial empire, both civil and European wars and an constitutional

Doing Business in the United Kingdom | UK Social and Business Culture

monarchy. The fourth largest trading nation, the UK is fast becoming Europe’s leading business centre. Supported by a long-established system of government and economic stability, the UK is an attractive base for overseas business, offering skills in areas such as research, development and technology. However, in order to operate successfully in the UK business environment, there are a number of important issues to take into consideration both before and during your time there.

UK Business Part 1 - Working in the UK (Pre-departure)

o Working practices in the UK

In accordance with British business protocol, punctuality is essential at any

business meeting or social event.

When making business appointments it is best practice to do so several days

in advance.

The British are inclined to follow established rules and practices; therefore

decision-making is often a slow and systematic process.

o Structure and hierarchy in UK companies

Today, UK businesses maintain relatively “flat” organisational hierarchies.

The principal pide is between managers and other ranks.

In general, the board of directors is the principal decision-making unit. Major

decisions are made at the very top.

The British prefer to work in the security of a group-established order with

which they can identify.

o Working relationships in the UK

UK managers generally favour the establishment of good working

relationships with their subordinates.

The boss often takes the role of a coach, creating an atmosphere of support

and encouragement.

Teamwork is very important, however there exists a strong feeling of

inpidual accountability for implementation and error.

o Business practices in the UK

Business meetings in the UK are often structured but not too formal and

begin and end with social conversation.

Doing Business in the United Kingdom | UK Social and Business Culture

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.

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

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