British Business Etiquette

What You Need to Know About British Business Etiquette

Etiquette is always an important part of UK cultural awareness training for professionals relocating to the country for work or those doing business with the British.

The Brits are known for their manners. If you’re working with British people, it’s a good idea to get to grips with their culture and etiquette.

Why? Although they can be very laid-back people, there are certain things they dislike. By understanding these, you will help make the best impression possible.

In this guide, we’re going to look at some of the common mistakes made by foreigners working with the British or new to UK business culture.

Before reading on, remember that the UK is made up of four culturally distinct countries. As such, we can’t define everyone you’ll meet, but at the very least, we can give you some good ‘rules of thumb’.

British culture has a long history. What we see in the UK today in terms of business etiquette and manners has its roots way back in time. Although highly conservative, the British have also earned a reputation for innovation.

Photo by Grooveland Designs on Unsplash

What Should You Wear in British Business Etiquette?

If you’re visiting a British business, then check the dress code in advance, as the dress code is becoming increasingly relaxed.

Far more companies have adopted business casual dress – such as polo shirts, chinos, casual skirts, and blouses. One can feel a bit out of place attending a meeting in a formal suit when everyone else looks casual.

However, if you don’t know the dress code of the people you’re meeting with, then it’s better to err on the side of caution and overdress rather than underdress, as some companies still adhere to traditional dark suits and ties.

How Do British Professionals Greet Each Other?

Putting the changes in greeting etiquette since COVID-19 to one side, most people greet each other with a quick handshake, eye contact and an introduction if they didn’t already know each other.

Unlike other parts of Europe, kisses are strictly reserved for good friends and family. Don’t be surprised if your British counterpart recoils at the sight of your pursed lips.

When shaking hands, the British like them to be slightly on the firm side. This shows confidence and a certain level of comfort in the greeting. A limp handshake can be interpreted as meaning something is wrong or being withheld.

Should You Use First Names or Titles in the UK Workplace?

It’s very rare for British people to introduce themselves with the titles ‘Mr’, ‘Mrs’ or ‘Miss’ and their surname.

You may find this in older, more traditional sectors such as law firms, but most British businesses are now very down-to-earth. Instead, most people will introduce themselves with their first name only.

Despite Britain being a class-based culture, Brits create rapport by moving immediately to the use of first names.

As such, it’s a good idea to present yourself in the same manner and not be too formal.

Drinks are very much part of British work and team culture. ‘Buying a round’ is central to drinking etiquette at pubs and bars.

Photo by Amie Johnson on Unsplash

Are Personal Questions Appropriate in British Business Etiquette?

No. In British etiquette, people tend to resent intrusive questions from people they don’t know.

For this reason, you should avoid anything personal when making conversation with new acquaintances. It’s this approach to privacy that results in the stereotype of the British being a ‘cold’ people.

Instead of personal questions, the weather makes a great conversation topic, followed by traffic, sports, and travel. If you’re meeting with people in London, then complaining about the underground is a great way to start a conversation!

Is It Appropriate to Ask About Age or Personal Background in the UK?

Nope! Equality is hugely important in British culture, with people tending to treat one another as equals, no matter their age, seniority, or gender.

Asking someone about their sexuality, age or ethnic background can be perceived negatively.

Likewise, making a joke about these topics can result in an employee facing disciplinary proceedings.

Although Brits love humour, and it’s very much part of the UK communication style, it’s very unlikely that they would stray onto these topics, particularly in the workplace.

How Should You Interpret British Humour at Work?

Although British humour has the potential to offend people from other cultures, it’s important to bear in mind that humour is used to build relationships and to ease potential tension.

For example, Brits use a great deal of banter and sarcasm, which involves teasing others and being teased in return.

If they make a joke about your clothing, then it really isn’t meant to offend. If they genuinely found your clothing unappealing, then they’d stay far away from the subject.

Adapting to British Business Culture

Yes! These insights are only a high-level overview and will not apply to everybody you meet.

However, they are a good starting point if you’re new to working with the British or in the UK.

If you remember to soften feedback, avoid sensitive topics, and pay heed to equality, then you’ll be fast on your way to adapting to British business culture.

Main image by Gregory Hayes on Unsplash