British business etiquette and customs.
British people are often friendly and welcoming, but there are some unspoken expectations when it comes to business etiquette.
Here are a few customs to consider when branching out into the British market:
Getting the right balance of formal and friendly can be challenging in a new market. In a business environment, it’s important to use polite greetings. When first introduced, it’s often acceptable to call someone by their first name, and then offer a brief handshake. In Britain, hugging or kissing someone on the cheek is typically reserved for friends and loved ones.
If you’re contacting someone by email in a formal exchange, you might want to begin by addressing them with ‘Dear [Name]’.
If they respond with a more casual greeting, such as ‘Hi [Name]’, then feel free to mirror their greetings in the rest of your communications.
It’s common to end business emails with a simple choice of:
- Kind regards
- Regards
- Many thanks
Courtesy.
The stereotype of British people being polite often rings true. While Brits appreciate being direct, there is some nuance to the ‘correct’ delivery. It’s important not to be too blunt when issuing instructions or offering criticism, as it can be received as being too harsh or rude.
Instead, make sure to be tactile and polite when getting your message across.
Don’t be afraid of politely asking for something to be explained or clarified if you’re unsure. Often, someone will be happy to help and often appreciate your attention to being thorough.
Authenticity.
In British culture, it’s often preferred for people to get directly to the point when communicating something. This also applies to business interactions. While maintaining your politeness and courtesy, it’s often good to be direct without using overly flowery or dramatic language.
For example, mainstream British and American media, such as the news, tend to fall at different ends of the spectrum.
Local British news is typically known for being political, respectful, and even light-hearted, and international news informative and impartial. By contrast, American news and media coverage can sometimes appear more passionate and sensationalised.
Punctuality.
Punctuality is an important part of understanding business etiquette in the UK. Being punctual shows someone you have manners and respect their time. You should always try to arrive on time or five minutes early to give a good impression.
If you’re running late, make sure to contact your client or meeting host in plenty of time to let them know you’re on your way, and when you’re likely to arrive.
If you’re the meeting host, it’s good business etiquette to keep to the scheduled time. This also shows you appreciate your clients’ or stakeholders’ time.
Wardrobe.
British business attire can vary depending on the industry and the workplace. These days, many businesses adopt a more casual dress code policy, although it’s often polite to dress more formally for meeting clients.
- Casual. Casual dress codes are more relaxed and comfortable. You can often wear jeans and trainers.
- Smart casual. Smart casual attire often includes smart trousers, skirts, comfortable dresses, and shirts. You can wear more colourful clothing but be mindful of bold patterns and designs.
- Business professional. You’ll often be required to wear a suit or smart blouse.
- Business formal. Formal business attire often requires traditional tailored suits, shirts, blazers, and skirts.
If you’re not sure how formal to dress in a British business setting, it’s often a good plan to arrive overdressed than underdressed. Most people will appreciate the extra effort as a sign of respect.
Queueing.
In public spaces and the workplace, you may find people forming an orderly queue at the coffee machine, water dispenser, or the restrooms. British queuing etiquette means that when you arrive, you’ll join the back of the queue (or line). This is so each person receives the service fairly, in order of their arrival.
