The British Culture
If your culture is only a little different from the British you run the risk of not noticing your differences when you interact with them. However, the British have very well developed ‘social radars’ and it is almost certain that they will notice how YOU are different to them!
Prepare for Culture
- Can you avoid cultural problems by mimicking the British culture?
- Is there such a thing as a truly neutral culture?
- Is the best way of treating British people simply to treat them in the manner you would like to be treated?
In case you are in doubt, the answer to all three questions is ‘No!’. Imitating another culture will not change what you feel. And as everything do and every action you take is cultural loaded, your imitations will be apparent to people around you. To respect people you should treat them like they want to be treated, not like you would like to be treated.
The Prepare for Culture module is a thorough interactive introduction to practical cultural theory. It will teach you how cultural differences can be measured and it will with the help of various cultural self-assessment tools show how your ‘cultural makeup’ is different from that of the British. The module is also an introduction to some core British values.
The Social Culture
How much personal space do the British require? Which side of an escalator are you supposed to walk on and which side should you stand to? How many times must you meet British people before you can invite them for dinner in your own home?
- Get the answers to this and many more practical social protocol questions in the section Interacting With the British.
How do you make new friends in the UK? Everyone will be social and welcoming, but do they actually want to be your friend?
- Learn to socialise and network with Culture Class's Social Culture and network sections.
The Business Culture
The British business culture is highly competitive, fast moving, and steeped in tradition. It is known throughout the world for being reliable, efficient, and timely.
Because of this reputation many foreigners are often surprised when they learn that the business culture, especially in the big companies, sometimes is less focused on service than on internal politics.
Compared to many other western cultures, a relatively big part of the British workday is spent on socialising and building business relationships rather than working on technical tasks or other easily documented business activities.
The British are hardworking people who like structure and a certain amount of discipline at their work places. At the same time, they are also a fun loving lot who would not shy away from skiving from time to time (skiving means taking time off work for no real reason).
If you were surprised about any of the above, you will be even more surprised when you access the two modules The Business Culture and Cultural Analysis.
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