Business Etiquette
Although business organisations in the UK generally maintain relatively flat organisational structures decision making is usually made at the top with senior management maintaining a certain level of authority and respect. Status is important in business and the British tend to like to adhere to certain established rules and procedures which can prolong decision making and negotiating somewhat.
The British can be rather formal in business situations and do tend to prefer to work with organisations or people they know. Although once you have built good rapport business dealings will likely be a lot more informal and open, although the British do still like to maintain a certain level of formality to maintain professionalism in business situations. Networking and relationship building is key for success in business in the UK. The British like to build long standing relationships with the people they are working with and can be wary of people looking for a ‘quick sale’.
Punctuality is very important. Ensure that you book meetings at least several days in advance. Upon meeting a firm handshake is the norm as is handshaking at the end of a meeting. It is not necessary to greet people by title and surname, the use of first names is usually customary if you have communicated previously prior to meeting. Business cards are usually exchanged at the point of meeting however there is no formal procedure for this.
