The full name of the United Kingdom is “The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland”, referred to as the United Kingdom, also referred to as the United Kingdom. The main religions in the United Kingdom are Protestantism and Roman Catholicism. The national characteristics of the United Kingdom are closely related to its cultural background. The economy of the United Kingdom developed earlier. In the eyes of most foreigners, the British are “self-righteous” and “difficult to approach”. However, in fact, this is not entirely true. They are good at understanding each other and can sympathize with others. No matter what they do, they always try not to leave a bad impression. Gentlemen can be seen everywhere. They know how to create a harmonious environment so that everyone can live harmoniously and happily.
In business dealings, they value friendship, do not deliberately pursue material things, and have a style of a great man. For business negotiations, they often do not make adequate preparations, do not pay attention to details, and appear a little loose. But British businessmen are kind, friendly and easy to get along with. Therefore, problems are easy to solve. They are sociable, adaptable, flexible, and actively respond to constructive opinions.
When doing business in the United Kingdom, you must abide by your credit, and you must go all out and complete what you promised without compromise. The British are withdrawn, rigid in their lives, serious in their work, uninterested in the outside world, often taciturn, cautious about new things, and have a unique calm humor. They are conservative and indifferent, and don’t show their emotions easily. Even if they are very sad, they often don’t show it. They rarely lose their temper, are patient, and are unwilling to argue with others unnecessarily. The British are very patient in doing things, and they never show anxiety under any circumstances. The British are polite and polite in their speech, and they always say “thank you” and “please”. So you should also be polite when speaking to or sending emails to the British. No matter what their work and position are, you should treat them with courtesy. When asking them to do something, you should speak tactfully and don’t make people feel that you are commanding, otherwise, you may be treated coldly. In the UK, “appearance determines everything”. When interacting with the British, you should try to avoid showing your emotions, and giving small gifts can increase friendship.
The British have a strong sense of time. When visiting or negotiating business, you must make an appointment in advance. It is very important to be on time, and it is best to arrive a few minutes in advance. The way they get along is to strictly observe time and keep promises. The British people also have the habit of following traditions. It is advisable to avoid using the word “English” to mean “British”. If you meet two buyers, one is Scottish or Welsh, and you say he is “British”, then he will correct you and say he is “Scottish” or “Welsh”. It is advisable to use the word “British”. The attitude of business talks must be conservative and cautious. They only shake hands when they meet for the first time or on special occasions, or when they express approval and congratulations.
What aspects should be paid attention to when communicating with British people in business?
(1) The British are particularly particular about gentlemanly manners, good at getting along with others, and pay attention to social etiquette. This is not only a requirement for the British to themselves, but also very important to the cultivation and demeanor of the negotiating opponents.
(2) Do not mention politics and history, especially the UK and Europe, and be sure to use the full name when addressing British leaders.
(3) It is best to use British English when negotiating with them, and remember not to use American English.
(4) Be patient. British people are generally tough, and even if they are not well prepared in advance, they will still insist on their own opinions. So if the negotiation fails in one try, you can arrange multiple attempts. Don’t be impatient.