The Etiquette for Forming Business Relationships in Australia
If you are planning to do business in Australia and have an upcoming trip scheduled, there are many things you should know before going. Business relationships and culture in the "Down Under" are similar to other Western cultures, but Australians tend to be more down to earth than other cultures. When building business relationships with Australians, the main key is to let your work speak for itself.
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Demeanor and Attitude
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Australians are very friendly and open-minded, and they loathe pretentiousness. They place a high value on their "mates," and seek to build authentic, sincere business relationships. They often downplay their own successes and do not draw attention to their academic or business achievements. They do not typically want to do business with people who brag or think they are better than other people. Australians usually prefer to work with those who are modest, humble and have a sense of humor.
Greetings
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The phrase "G'day Mate," is overused and trite, so do not use it with potential business prospects--even if they greet you with it. Simply give a smile, a handshake and say, "Hello." Aussies are casual and prefer to use first names, even when meeting someone for the first time. Never hype yourself, your product or your company.
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Communication
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English is the spoken language in most Australian business communications. When first meeting someone, engage in small talk about sightseeing or sports. They prefer direct communication and are very logical and matter-of-fact when it comes to business topics. They sometimes use colorful language, so do not feel offended or act shocked. Bargaining is not customary, and negotiations there tend to proceed very quickly.
Dining
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When trying to build business relationships with Australians, you often will dine with them, and you need to be on their timetables. Afternoon tea typically takes place around 4 p.m., and dinner occurs between 6 and 8 p.m., and is also called "tea." Supper is usually a snack or late-night meal. Aussies enjoy their alcoholic beverages, and typically take turns paying for drink rounds. Never pick up your tab out of turn, and always pay when it is your turn. If you are invited to a "barbie," or barbecue at someone's home, arrive on time and bring wine or beer. Australians use continental table manners, which means to hold your fork in the left hand and knife in the right hand.
Clothing
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If you have business meetings in Sydney or Melbourne, dress conservatively. Men usually wear dark-colored suits, and women typically wear business suits or dresses. If you are meeting in Brisbane or other tropical areas, the dress code is more casual and relaxed. Many Aussies wear Bermuda shorts with shirts and ties in these areas.
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References
- Photo Credit Australia image by Stefano Maccari from Fotolia.com
