Aussie Etiquette

For International Business By: Jonathan McCranie

Australia

• The land of down under is home to around 21,007,310 people

• English is the dominant spoken language • Australia’s government is a

Constitutional monarchy

Business Greetings

• Australians are not very formal so greetings are casual and relaxed.

• While an Australian may say, 'G'day' or 'G'day, mate', this may sound patronizing from a foreigner. Visitors should simply say, 'Hello' or 'Hello, how are you?‘

• Aussies prefer to use first names, even at the initial meeting

Business Dress

• Standard business dress code for men is a black or navy suit with a white shirt and tie, and for women skirt or trouser suit with white blouse

• During the summer, the jacket can be removed

• Women are best not to wear too much jewelry and makeup, as it can be seen as extravagant and ‘showing off’

Business Cards

• Business cards are exchanged at the initial introduction without formal ritual.

• If you are not given a business card, it is not an insult; the person simply may not have one.

Restaurant etiquette

• Arrive on time if invited to dinner; no more than 15 minutes late if invited to a barbeque or a large party.

• Table manners are Continental -- hold the fork in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating.

• Indicate you have finished eating by laying your knife and fork parallel on your plate with the handles facing to the right.

Gift Giving

• Generally, gift-giving is not part of Australian business culture, and it is best not to send a gift to your business counterpart at any time, including holidays, unless you receive one first.

• Be mindful of Australian custom to ‘bring your own’ (byo), which is often expected for less formal occasions like barbeques or picnics (very popular in Australia). Best practice is to ask when invited if you should bring something.

Summary

• Australia is a very formal place.• Dressing fancy does not impress. To

Australians its like you saying that you’re better than them

• Gifts are not expected.• “BYO” or “Bring Your Own” is a big tradition.

References

• http://www.cyborlink.com/• http://www.executiveplanet.com/index.php?ti

tle=Main_Page• http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/gl

obal-etiquette/australia.html