Doing Business in the United Kingdom

Although no longer in the driver’s seat of a worldwide empire, the United Kingdom is still a significant global economic power, and many expats are interested in doing business in the UK.

Each of the UK’s four countries – England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland – retain their own unique characteristics. However, when it comes to the working world, their practices, etiquette, and culture are relatively similar, and all are governed by a uniform respect for politeness and courtesy.

While the business world remains conservative, the UK has become a thriving multicultural environment, and you'll find little ill-will directed toward enterprising foreigners.

The UK’s position as a popular place to do business is a clear result of its long-established political and economic stability, sound infrastructure and highly skilled workforce.

Fast facts

Business hours

Usually 9am to 5pm, Mondays to Fridays.

Business language

English is the language of business in the United Kingdom.

Dress

Business dress depends on the industry, but for most, it’s conservative and formal, with both men and women wearing dark suits (pantsuits are acceptable). Media and creative companies, with much more relaxed dress codes, tend to be an exception.

Greetings

A firm handshake is the best way to greet business contacts. Address senior business colleagues using their formal title until directed otherwise.

Gifts

Not expected, and borderline inappropriate. A round of drinks, on the other hand, is happily received.

Gender equality

The UK is relatively equal in terms of gender in the workplace, although there are still barriers to full equality.

Business culture in the UK

The key to successfully doing business in the UK is being able to read between the lines. You should be aware that deciphering the difference between what a person says and what they mean could take some practice.

Communication style

The British are reserved and pride themselves on good behaviour and manners. As a result, business dealings are incredibly diplomatic, with maximum effort directed at remaining considerate and civil. These fundamentals manifest in a restrained communication style, where directness is avoided, and evasive, cryptic and often humorous statements are substituted for what is actually meant.

You will need to be adept at understanding the subtleties of conversation, where tone and facial expression may be key indicators of true meaning, and humour is used as a defence mechanism or to mediate difficult situations.

Individualism

Individualism is highly valued in Britain, and you should anticipate working among colleagues who are competitive and ambitious. Experience and performance are the foundations for advancement in the working world, and those in management positions tend to be well-rounded.

Business hierarchy

A traditional hierarchy is still important in UK business, even though it’s moved towards a more egalitarian approach, where positions are more or less parallel to each other rather than existing below or above one another. As a result, duties and responsibilities can sometimes be unclear, which can be a point of frustration if you're accustomed to explicit directives and cultures of subordination.

Appearance and conduct

The British business sphere is still highly formal. Dress is conservative, punctuality is paramount, and outward displays of emotion are viewed with distaste.

Dos and don’ts of business in the UK

• Don’t underestimate the importance of polite requests. Specific instructions are often couched in a subtle ask.
• Do use humour in the workplace. The British respect wit and irony, often using these tactics to form relationships and to mediate difficult situations. 
• Don’t ask colleagues or clients personal questions. The British are reserved and private and may view this as intrusive and rude.
• Do be on time. The British are punctual, and tardiness is considered discourteous. If lateness can’t be avoided, inform the relevant party beforehand.