Australian Business Etiquette
While China and Japan are Australia's main trade partners, Australia also does significant business with the United States, India and the Republic of Korea, due to its rich resources, such as coal and natural gas. When doing business in Australia, it is imperative to adhere to the rules of etiquette in the country to build a lasting and beneficial professional relationship.
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Professional Attire
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In most Australian business settings, conservative professional dress is expected. Men should wear a black or dark blue business suit with a shirt and tie, and women should come to the office with a dress that is not too short or low-cut, or a skirt and blouse. Accessories are fine as long as they are not excessive or gaudy. In some of the more tropical parts of Australia, like Brisbane, it is acceptable to wear business casual attire; some men even come to work with a shirt and tie and Bermuda shorts. Both genders should take special care to be well-groomed (i.e. neat haircut, trimmed fingernails) before a business meeting.
Professional Greetings
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In Australia, men shake hands with one another, as well as with other women. When two men are greeting, the two should exchange a firm handshake. Women engage in a handshake when greeting at an initial business meeting, but women who are more familiar with each other may exchange a single kiss on the cheek. Men and women who know one another may kiss on the cheek when greeting one another as well. In informal business situations, such as meals or impromptu meetings, a simple nod of acknowledgment is acceptable.
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Professional Titles and Business Cards
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Most Australian professionals will interact with colleagues on a first-name basis as soon as possible. International businesspeople should not be alarmed if they are called by their first name a few minutes after introducing themselves at a business meeting. In especially formal business situations, it is best to start off addressing professionals as "Mr.", "Mrs.", "Ms." or "Miss", followed by the last name, until invited to use first names. Business cards can be passed out at any time during the meeting. While there are no specific rules concerning the treatment of business cards, they should be treated respectfully. It is always best not to do things like throw the card away, write on the card, or tear it while in a meeting.
Business Meetings
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Showing up on time for business meetings in Australia always helps to make a great impression. If a colleague wishes to engage in small talk before the meeting, arriving a few minutes early is best. During business negotiations, it's best for professionals to be forthcoming concerning their intentions and goals for the business deal--this information should be backed by facts and figures, which should also be presented at the meeting. However, being overly persuasive or using hard selling tactics should be avoided.
Gifts and Home Invitations
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It is not customary for Australian professionals to exchange gifts at initial business meetings, but small gifts from one's home country are usually acceptable. If invited to an Australian businessperson's home, it is best to bring the host a gift such as chocolates or flowers. Since Australians value punctuality, it is proper etiquette to be on time if invited to someone's home for dinner.
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