The United Kingdom includes four countries: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Before you go ahead and start your own business in the UK, it is important to be aware of the geographical distinctions and also the sense of identity and nationalism that people who live here feel.
Against the common misconception, the terms 'English' and 'British' are not interchangeable. Someone from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland is referred to as 'British' whereas the term 'English' is referred to people who are from England. People from Scotland are called as 'Scots'. A Welsh is someone from Wales and Irish is the one from Ireland.
Cultural Diversity
Although it was a homogenous society before the World War II, Britain has now become a diverse society accommodating immigrant population in huge numbers. There is a mixture of ethnic groups and cultures here.
Doing Business in the UK
The British are pretty formal. Most of these people do not need long personal relations before they get associated with someone on a professional level. They also do not require an intermediary for business introductions. The British are very good at networking and relationship building - factors that are key to long-term success.
It is a good idea to include an elder statesman in the team.
British Communication
The British have an interesting mix of communication styles which includes both understatement and direct communication. The older businessmen and ones from the upper class depend upon an established protocol. Most British do not use loud and effusive language. Words like 'perhaps' and 'it could be' are often used to qualify statements.
When communicating with someone who is equal in rank, the British are modest yet direct. Their communication style is informal when they talk to someone they know well.
Business Meetings
Punctuality is a very significant British trait. In most of the cases, people you are meeting will be on time. It is advisable to call even if you are running late by 5 minutes for a business meeting. After all, you wouldn't want the first impression to be bad. Do not make a big issue if you have to wait for some time.
The composition of attendees plays an important role in conducting business meetings. There is a free flow of ideas if everyone in the meeting is at the similar level. In case there is a senior ranking person, most of the talking is done by that person and meetings will be formal in nature.
Making exaggerated claims during a presentation is not advisable. The presentation should look professional and well thought out along with facts and figures.
The British rely on facts and not emotions while making decisions. Maintaining eye contact is suggested. You should also send a summary after the meeting.
For more efficiency, it is advisable to stay at places in London Show archive.org snapshot that are well connected to commercial and business centres. Following these things can really help you in your business venture in London.
