Social Etiquette in England
Learning correct social etiquette is important if you are a guest. Knowing communication and business skills can keep you from making a fool of yourself. English people have a different sense of humor, and you don't want to be the butt of their jokes!
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Conversations
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Safe topics of small talk conversation include food and animals. You can also discuss film, books, music, television and the arts. Many British people, particularly men, like holding conversations about soccer. Jobs and cars are also appropriate topics. Refrain from discussing private issues including a person's age. Do not discuss sex because some people have strong religious ideas or might become uncomfortable with the topic. Never under any circumstances criticize British food or culture. British people might not find it funny at all! People may call you a variety of names that include chick and duckie. There is no need to take offense over these names.
Tipping
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A typical tip for waiters in restaurants was about 10 percent of the bill in 2009. Some restaurants add the tip to the bill, which means you might want to check the receipt or menu before adding an additional tip. Travelers typically leave a 10 percent tip for taxi drivers. Leaving a small tip for hairdressers and porters at hotels is customary.
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Clothing
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English business professionals typically dress conservatively. For instance, men should wear dark suits to business meetings. They should not have on shirts that have pockets. Women can dress in shirts that are not low cut and skirts that are not high on the thigh.
Privacy
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Privacy is important to English people. If you are visiting England, you should refrain from asking about personal topics. Avoiding staring at people--they consider staring to be invasive, and they rarely keep eye contact during conversations.
Decision Making
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If you are a business person traveling to England, you should refrain from rushing your British colleagues into decisions. They typically make decisions slowly, and they won't be hurried based on your impatience.
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References
- Photo Credit england flag.the flag of england. image by L. Shat from Fotolia.com
