Business

Rules regarding business attire are usually relaxed, but it is best for both men and women to dress conservatively.

Dark suits with solid ties are recommended. Avoid striped ties, as they are usually associated with school children; they are the identifying mark for which school a student attends.

Always be punctual for meetings.

Business lunches are a very common form of meeting.

Eye contact is not always kept during conversation.

Privacy is very important. Avoid asking personal questions or staring at people for a long period of time.

Decision making sometimes takes longer than it does in the United States; try not to rush people into making a decision.

Dining

Business lunches will most often be conducted in pubs over a meal.

Gift Giving

Gifts are seldom given during business meetings, but a small gift is acceptable.

Small gifts such as a pen or other company items serve as appropriate gifts.

When visiting someone’s house, it is appropriate to bring a small gift such as flowers.

Greeting

Greetings usually consist of a brief handshake.

When meeting someone, refer to them by their title and their surname.