Cultural Courtesy: America Vs. England

Originally, I thought England had some of the same cultural courtesies as America. I was wrong. After doing some research on cyber.com, here some unique differences between American and English Culture:



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, 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
  

Refernces:
Cyberlink.com, Retreived 10/09/08, http://www.cyborlink.com/besite/united_kingdom.htm