Business Etiquette - United Kingdom

Appearance

• Business attire rules are somewhat relaxed in England, but conservative dress is still very important for both men and women.Dark suits, usually black, blue, or gray, are quite acceptable.
• Men's shirts should not have pockets; if they do, the pockets should always be kept empty. Additionally, men should wear solid or patterned ties, while avoiding striped ties.
• Men wear laced shoes, not loafers.
• Businesswomen are not as limited to colors and styles as men are, though it is still important to maintain a conservative image.

Behavior

• Always be punctual in England. Arriving a few minutes early for safety is acceptable.
• Decision-making is slower in England than in the United States; therefore it is unwise to rush the English into making a decision.
• A simple handshake is the standard greeting (for both men and women) for business occasions and for visiting a home.
• Privacy is very important to the English. Therefore asking personal questions or intensely staring at another person should be avoided.
• Eye contact is seldom kept during British conversations.
• To signal that something is to be kept confidential or secret, tap your nose.
• Personal space is important in England, and one should maintain a wide physical space when conversing. Furthermore, it is considered inappropriate to touch others in public.
• Gifts are generally not part of doing business in England.
• A business lunch will often be conducted in a pub and will consist of a light meal and perhaps a pint of ale.
• When socializing after work hours, do not bring up the subject of work.
• When dining out, it is not considered polite to toast those who are older than yourself.

Communications

"America and Britain are two nations divided by a common language" George Bernard was once quoted as saying. In England, English is the official language, but it should be noted that Queen’s English and American English are very different. Often times ordinary vocabulary can differ between the two countries.

• Loud talking and disruptive behavior should be avoided.
• One gesture to avoid is the V for Victory sign, done with the palm facing yourself. This is a very offensive gesture.
• If a man has been knighted, he is addressed as "Sir and his first name" example: Sir John.
• If writing a letter, the envelope is addressed "Sir First name and Last name" example: Sir John Roberts.