Адаптация к новой культурной среде

ПРИЛОЖЕНИЕ 2

CONTENTS

HOW TO ADJUST IN RUSSIA                                                                2

BUSINESS IN RUSSIA                                                                        8

HOW TO ADJUST IN ENGLAND                                                        10

BUSINESS IN BRITAIN                                                                        20

СПИСОК ИСПОЛЬЗУЕМОЙ ЛИТЕРАТУРЫ                                                26

ИНТЕРНЕТ – РЕСУРСЫ                                                                        26

HOW TO ADJUST IN RUSSIA

The first impression of many foreigners, particularly those visiting large cities, is an environment avoidance of emotion. One of the mistakes that Westerners make is assuming that everybody loves a nice, sunny smile. This is not actually the case in Russia. Strangers seldom greet one another in the street, cashiers rarely engage in "small talk" and a simple smile is sometimes difficult to find. At first glance Russians seem unfriendly, somewhat "cold" in nature. Russians do smile but they do so only when they have a reason. (And "just being alive" isn't considered a good reason). They find constant smiling false and a bit silly. Also, Russians don't like formal smiles. So don't worry if they don't smile. It doesn't mean negative feelings towards you.

Keep your voice down when you are having a conversation in public or at home in a Russian family. Be quiet, polite and try not to hog the entire conversation.

Avoid debates about the merits of Russian culture versus Western culture in general and American culture in particular. National pride is an important part of being Russian, and you will most likely offend those around you by suggesting that any part of their culture is strange or inferior. Although Russians praise honesty and openness, this is one instance where it's best to keep quiet.

Don’t say sorry for everything. For instance, if a Russian tells you that his mother has died, don't say "I'm sorry." It's better to simply comment that the death is a bad situation.

Most Russians are just happy that foreigners are trying to speak their language and will help as much as possible. It’s better to make Russian friends at school, through the host family, and during inter-program excursions. Most Russians are truly warm and hospitable despite their normal cold and pessimistic attitude in the street.

Always use "vy" (“you”) with Russians who you do not know, even if they are the same age. Wait for the Russians to initiate using "ty" (informal) with you.

Ask about house rules when you arrive. If you do not know how to do something, simply ask someone.

***

If you're invited over for dinner, or just for a visit, don't come to a Russian house with empty hands. You won't need to bring anything extravagant--flowers or a small souvenir from your native land, chocolates or flowers (an odd number over 2 flowers and not yellow) are a good suggestion. (Even number of flowers is good at funerals only.) Just avoid bringing a knife as a gift, as this is considered very bad luck.

Russians do not wear their shoes in the house. You should remove your shoes in the entryway. Often your hosts will have a set of slippers for you to wear during your visit. In general, keep your feet off of tables and furniture. And always take off your coat in any building that has a cloakroom. Most Russian buildings do.

Have some tea and sweets on hand. You never know when your Russian friends may pop in unexpectedly. Tea and sweets are a tradition to have for guests.

***

If you are wearing gloves, take them off when you shake hands.

Be polite to the people who you see everyday like security guards, etc. A little gift can grant you many privileges.

Russian students get really dressed up for class (expect to see young men in full suits walking around your campus). Russians, especially women, pay attention to their appearance both at the market and at the club.

Do not assume that everybody in Russia is ethnically Russian. There are more than 100 ethnic groups in Russia. When talking to Russians it is appropriate to ask about their "nationality" and their customs and traditions different from the Russian.

Don't be afraid to decline vodka. You won't offend anyone. Just have a religious or health excuse ready. If you do drink with Russians, know that the bottle is usually drunk until it is empty. Russians have a big practice in drinking strong drinks. Don't try to overdrink them, if you want to find your way home.

Don't expect European standards in public places like restrooms.

Do not wear caps in the class rooms. This is unaccepted behaviour at schools and any professor or teacher will be offended.

Don't expect everyone you meet with to be on time. Russians are usually not punctual people. Don't be upset if your meeting is canceled or postponed.

Do not expect to pay a visit to a friend "for a half an hour". If you are invited to someone's house and sit down to lunch or dinner this is a lengthy process.

Do not hesitate to open your soul to Russians. You will be considered a real friend. Russians don't have a developed bank system yet. They do rarely know about Europeans living on loans. They will find you to be very rich when they learn that your parents own a house, several cars and you are a student of a university. Be open talking about your finances. This will be very educational for them.

Russians value honesty, even brutal honesty, much more than niceties. Don't bother being "nice." Instead, be real. Be open and honest, and it will be much appreciated.

***

You can discuss almost everything with Russian people: private matters, children, culture, politics, philosophy, health. Don't discuss only topics connected with money and career. Don't ask their age and don't speak badly about their country. All Russians have their own views on political situation in their country and want to share them with others. They also like to argue what politicians are better. Today they can criticise their country, their politics and life there. And tomorrow they can tell you that Russia is the best country in the world. They are great patriots. They love their home and their country but they do not like their government. They usually call it “they”. The government is their enemy and it must be avoided. They think that the government can’t be good and nobody expects it to be good.

Do not count the change too openly in restaurants, cafes and pubs, as Russians can be offended, that you don't trust them.

Don't boast of your talents, achievements and the life in your country, as this can irritate them.

The closer your relations with Russian people, the more unceremonious they are.

Russian people can seem unceremonious for people from other countries. They can touch your clothes, ask where you bought it and what their price is.

They can stare at you or your things and they think that it is OK. Foreign people usually think that their behaviour is too personal. But a long stare at the eyes is considered to be immodest in Russia.

***

Russians are very sociable. They can’t understand if a foreign person comes to them and is sitting in his room but he doesn’t want to communicate. It seems strange for them.

When a Russian person speaks with somebody or sits down near them, the distance between them and other people are usually shorter than in other countries. That is why they always think that Americans and Europeans keep away from them. And foreign people usually think that Russians are unceremonious.

Europeans usually think that Russians are very familiar with their relatives. Russian people think that Europeans treat their relatives like strangers.

Russian people are very superstitious. They spit over the left shoulder, if they see a cat (especially black) crossing their way. They also get upset when they or somebody else spill salt or break a mirror.

If you meet a Russian person in the street and ask him about his life you will have to listen all about it. He will tell you all about problems, illnesses, not only his own but his relatives’ and so on. So be careful about it.

Russian people have a sensible perception of life. They need close relations and they are emotionally dependent on their environment. They do not like reserved and not emotional people. They consider them to be not sincere.

Russians are also very dependent on the social opinion. That is why their behavior in public places differs from their behavior with friends and relatives.

For Russians friend is not a word used loosely. In Russia one has fewer friends and more acquaintance. In North America the term friend is more widely used, even when "friends" are little more than mere acquaintances. A Russian friend is someone you can always rely on.

The contrast between the "warmth" and hospitality of Russian homes versus the restrained, sometimes "cold" nature in streets, is like night and day. The warmth and generosity of Russian homes, both physical and emotional, is quite incredible.

Food and drink is a very important part of Russian hospitality. When invited for dinner you will be treated to a variety of home-made dishes.

Be hospitable: your friends will be offended if you do not invite them to be your guests.

***

Gender roles in Russia tend to be much more traditional than they are in the West. In general, men should be strong and assertive while women should be smart and beautiful. Accordingly, Russian women tend to dress much more femininely (as to accentuate their beauty) and men still adhere to traditional male etiquette. For guys visiting Russia (particularly for guys who will be courting a female), here are a few good manners to remember:

1. bring flowers or a small gift for your date;
2. offer your hand in assistance when a lady is entering or exiting a vehicle or public transportation;
3. always open the door for a lady;
4. assist a lady when she needs to put on or take off her coat;
5. in a restaurant, assist a lady with her chair, pour her drink and make sure she is served before you start your meal;
6. if she smokes, light her cigarette;
7. in public transport, always offer your lady to sit first when there is only one seat (it’s also considered good manners to offer elderly women and mothers your seat);
8. always offer to carry heavy bags;
9. when greeting, a kiss on the cheek is customary - many women consider it unfeminine to shake hands when meeting;
10. in Russia men still pay the bill on dates.

Traditional gender roles in the Russian home are also still quite common. Women typically cook and clean, men take care of repairs and maintenance. As far as younger generation is concerned the male is now taking on more responsibility in the kitchen, with the children, and (on occasion), even with the cleaning.

Russia is a safe country if you use your common sense. Avoid railway stations at night, nightclubs with lots of black limos parked outside and groups of skinheads on the streets and you will be safe.

BUSINESS IN RUSSIA

Russians do not trust each other readily. If you want your staff to develop and work as autonomous teams, you need to create and maintain mutual trust.

Read one of the great Russian novels whether you choose Dead Souls, Crime and Punishment or Anna Karenina, they will give you great insights into Russian culture.

Russians are friendly people and if you are to build your team you must take time to create relationships with your colleagues. It may seem a slow process but it will produce real long term benefits.

Never forget a close colleague’s birthday.

When speaking English, never assume that you have been understood. Russian do not like losing face and admitting in front of colleagues that they have not understood English would risk that happening. They are likely to just sit there and say nothing!

Bear in mind that during the winter months there is very little sunlight. You and your colleagues are thus very susceptible to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and the clinical depression that goes with it.

Remember money is not the only driver for Russians when they are job-hunting. Conditions of employment and the range of benefits offered can mean much more.

Learn a bit of Russian, it will make your life so much easier.

Do not be modest in talking about your education and qualifications. Russians respect study and learning.

A successful negotiation in Russia requires above all that the relationship between the partners should be built first. You need to take time on early stages to do this.

Russian employees may seem to make long and chatty phone calls.

Russians are problem avoiders rather than problem confronters. You need to develop a high degree of trust in your colleagues before they will come to you to tell you about something that has gone wrong.

The Russian view of time is similar to that in many Latin cultures: meetings will rarely start or end on time nor will people always arrive at work punctually.

Be very careful about making comparisons with home. Russians know very well that the infrastructure in Russia is bad although improving and do not need foreigners to point this out to them.

Try to do business after having established the personal contacts. Russia has very people-oriented culture, so without personal trust between partners no one will be ready to run business together.

***

A foreign manager working with Russian subordinates can face some problems as passivity, responsibility avoidance, deadlines’ breaking up, lateness and delays, fear of change, etc.

Usually Russians are motivated with three things:

1) great and challenging aims with the impact for the nation as a whole;

2) self-development including possibility to learn;

3) flexibility in time use.

Foreigners are not ready for the ambivalent strategies of Russians during negotiations. Being very theatrical Russians are able to play different roles at various levels of negotiations. They may choose the “sit it out” tactic and if necessary are able to change it in a flash to the immediate deal strategy.

Never think that money is a key motivator for Russians at the negotiation.

The “Golden rules” for interacting with Russians:

1) establish personal relations;

2) respect the national honour;

3) do not take what is said and heard for granted;

4) don`t be greedy, either for yourself or for them;

5) appeal to the feelings of the majority not to the law;

6) indicate your human side – emotions, hopes, aspirations etc.;

7) remember the order of priority: personal relationship, form and appearance, opportunity for financial gain.

HOW TO ADJUST IN ENGLAND

Do say "Excuse me": if someone is blocking your way and you would like them to move, say excuse me and they will move out of your way.

Do say "Please" and "Thank you": it is very good manners to say "please" and "thank you". It is considered rude if you don't. You will notice in England that we say 'thank you' a lot. Please is a very special word. It gets you a second helping of pudding, lets you stay up past your bedtime and, if you're lucky, charms aunties into supplementing your pocket money.

Do say “Sorry”: if you accidentally bump into someone, say 'sorry'. They probably will too, even if it was your fault! This is a habit and can be seen as very amusing by an 'outsider'.

Do stand in line: in England they like to form orderly queues (standing in line) and wait patiently for our turn e.g. boarding a bus. It is usual to queue when required, and expected that you will take your correct turn and not push in front. If in doubt as to whether someone is actually waiting in the queue, or just standing around, always ask before rushing in. To rush to the front of a queue could cause great offence. The British public do not take kindly to queue jumpers and will react in a number of different ways (from tutting and shaking their heads to manhandling you out of the queue and, possibly, out of the establishment).

Do smile: a smiling face is a welcoming face. Most British people will smile when they meet you, irrespective of how they are feeling.

Do not greet people with a kiss: it is only when you meet friends, whom you haven't seen for a long time, that you would kiss the cheek of the opposite sex. In Britain one kiss is generally enough.

It is impolite to stare at anyone in public: privacy is highly regarded.

Do not pick your nose in public: they are disgusted by this. If your nostrils need de-bugging, use a handkerchief.

Do not spit: spitting in the street is considered to be very bad mannered.

It is important to be aware that in the UK female and male members of staff are equally respected and accepted: women in Britain are entitled to equal respect and status as men (and indeed vice versa) in all areas of life and tend to have more independence and responsibility than in some other cultures. Women are usually independent and accustomed to entering public places unaccompanied. It is usual for women to go out and about on their own as well as with friends. Men and women mix freely.

It is ok for women to eat alone in a restaurant.

It is ok for women to wander around on their own.

It is ok for women to drink beer.

How to address people: many members of staff expect to be called by their first names. If you address them as Mr, Miss, Mrs, Dr or Professor you may be thought of as being very formal. Listen carefully to how they introduce themselves and to how other students address them.

In the UK, people like to be on first name terms almost immediately. However, do not take this as a sign of life-long friendship, it's just a way of breaking the ice and opening up discussion. If you are addressed as "Sir" or "Madam", it will generally indicated you are in a formal environment and you should behave as such.

Do not be worried about saying no. In this country a ‘no’ is not considered impolite. Honesty is much preferred, so that people know what you really mean. If you do not wish to do something do not worry about saying so.

***

In England arrive on time: if the guest arrives early, the host might not be ready.

Host or hostess always initiates first toast, which is usually only given at a formal dinner: toasts are usually only given at special occasions like formal dinners, birthdays and weddings.

At a formal dinner, do not smoke until after the toast to the Queen or until otherwise indicated by the host: guests at a formal dinner may not light a cigarette until after the Queens Toast or until the host gives permission. At a very formal dinner you should not leave the table until after the toast.

You should leave a very small amount of food on your plate when finished eating: if you do it means that you have had enough to eat. Leave too much and your host will think you hated their food.

If you go to someone's house for a meal, take a bottle of wine or some flowers for the lady of the house

The British generally pay a lot of attention to good table manners. Even young children are expected to eat properly with knife and fork.

They eat most of their food with cutlery. The foods they don't eat with a knife, fork or spoon include sandwiches, crisps, corn on the cob, and fruit.

If you cannot eat a certain type of food or have some special needs, tell your host several days before the dinner party.

If you are a guest, it is polite to wait until your host starts eating or indicates you should do so. It shows consideration.

Always say thank you when served something. It shows appreciation.

In a restaurant, it is normal to pay for your food by putting your money on the plate the bill comes on.

When you have finished eating, and to let others know that you have, place your knife and folk together, with the prongs (tines) on the fork facing upwards, on your plate at 12 o clock (12:00) position.

Don't reach over someone's plate for something, ask for the item to be passed.

***

British people place considerable value on punctuality. If you agree to meet friends at three o'clock, you can bet that they'll be there just after three. Since Britons are so time conscious, the pace of life may seem very rushed. In Britain, people make great effort to arrive on time. It is often considered impolite to arrive even a few minutes late. If you are unable to keep an appointment, it is expected that you call the person you are meeting. Some general tips follow:

1. At the exact time specified – for dinner, lunch, or appointments with professors, doctors, and other professionals.
2. Any time during the hours specified for teas, receptions, and cocktail parties.
3. A few minutes early: for public meetings, plays, concerts, movies, sporting events, classes, church services, and weddings.

If you are invited to someone's house for dinner at half past seven, they will expect you to be there on the dot. An invitation might state "7.30 for 8", in which case you should arrive no later than 7.50. However, if an invitation says "sharp", you must arrive in plenty of time.

“Drop in anytime” and “come see me soon” are idioms often used in social settings but seldom meant to be taken literally. It is wise to telephone before visiting someone at home. If you receive a written invitation to an event that says “RSVP”, you should respond to let the person who sent the invitation know whether or not you plan to attend.

Never accept an invitation unless you really plan to go. You may refuse by saying, “Thank you for inviting me, but I will not be able to come.” If, after accepting, you are unable to attend, be sure to tell those expecting you as far in advance as possible that you will not be there.

Although it is not necessarily expected that you give a gift to your host, it is considered polite to do so, especially if you have been invited for a meal. Flowers, chocolate, or a small gift are all appropriate. A thank-you note or telephone call after the visit is also considered polite and is an appropriate means to express your appreciation for the invitation.

***

It is proper to shake hands with everyone to whom you are introduced, both men and women. An appropriate response to an introduction is "Pleased to meet you". If you want to introduce yourself to someone, extend you hand for a handshake and say "Hello, I am....". Hugging is only for friends.

The usual formal greeting is a 'How do you do?' and a firm handshake, but with a lighter touch between men and women.

‘How do you do?’ is a greeting not a question and the correct response is to repeat ‘How do you do?' You say this when shaking hands with someone.

'How are you?' is a question and the most common and polite response is "I am fine thank you and you?"

Nice to meet you – Nice to meet you too. (Often said whilst shaking hands)

Delighted to meet you– Delighted to meet you too.

Pleased to meet you – Pleased to meet you too.

Glad to meet you - Glad to meet you too

Good Morning / Good Afternoon / Good Evening

Informal greetings are:

Hi - Hi or hello

Morning / Afternoon / Evening (We drop the word 'Good' in informal situations).

How's you? - Fine thanks. You?

They sometime say 'cheers' instead of thank you. You may hear 'cheers' said instead of 'good bye', what they are really saying is 'thanks and bye'.

***

The British are known to be reserved in nature and are very reluctant to show their emotions in public. Unlike some cultures, people do not usually slap each other on the shoulder or otherwise make physical contact during a conversation. A British person may misinterpret such behaviour as aggressive or being too emotional.

It may be usual for you to stand close to another person while in conversation. In the UK people usually maintain a distance of 60-110 cm, so do not be surprised if British people move away from you when talking!

In the UK, there is no special significance to the left and right hands. Both can be used for giving and receiving presents, although the right hand is always used for shaking hands.

You may be used to avoiding eye contact as a sign of respect for an older person or authority figure. This is not the case in the UK where avoiding eye contact is seen as a sign of insincerity and slyness. Try to look at people when speaking to them although it is usual to avoid eye contact with strangers (for example the person next to you in a train).

***

People will often use the phrase ‘Will you come for coffee’ to mean ‘would you like to come round for a short while and chat’. Normally several different drinks such as tea, drinking chocolate or a soft drink like orange will be available as well as coffee, and you will be asked what you would like. Your host will not normally offer you alcohol at a ‘coffee’ event. You should accept the invitation the first time it is offered if you would like to go. If you refuse the first invitation you are given, a British person will think this is your final decision and may not ask you again.

Answers that mean yes usually include the word yes. However answers that mean no may be worded indirectly. For example, if you asked a friend if you could come for tea, your friend may say ‘Well it would be nice to see you today for tea, but we are rather busy so I will let you know’. Your friend might well be saying in this case, ‘No I would rather you came for tea another day’.

***

When you first meet someone it can be difficult to know how to start a conversation, especially if your first language is not English.

Humour is a vital feature of all aspects of British life. In a society that finds it difficult to express genuine personal feelings, humour often acts as a defence mechanism but it is almost never out of place in a culture that is averse to seriousness in all circumstances. You need not strive to be interminably witty yourself, but you should not be surprised by what you may consider coarse or inappropriate levity.

On first meeting someone, try to ask general questions and not personal ones which may be thought to be impolite. Questions like ‘What is your name?’ ‘Where do you live?’ or ‘What do you do?’ are acceptable, but questions like ‘How old are you?’, ‘How much do you earn?’ or ‘How much did you pay for this?’ would be considered impolite.

If in doubt, try to talk about yourself: what you do and where you come from. Most British people know very little about other countries and their culture in detail. Even if they have travelled abroad, tourist travel is very different from actually living in a country.

The UK is a thoroughly multiracial and multicultural society. You should not make any assumptions about a person's background, nationality or origins.

Topics which are safe for small talk:

- Introductions, e.g. "Hello. May I introduce myself? My name is Mark"

- Travel, e.g. "Did you manage to find here OK?" or "Did you have a good journey?"

- Family, e.g. "How is your family?" (but only if you already know about the person's family)

- Hospitality, e.g. "Can I get you something to eat or drink?"

- The weather, e.g. "It's a lovely day today, isn't it?"

- Holidays, e.g. "Are you going anywhere this weekend?" or "Are you going anywhere on holiday this year?"

- Nature, e.g. "The garden looks lovely, doesn't it?"

- Pets, e.g. "What a lovely dog. What is his name?" (British people love dogs or cats)

- General news, e.g. "What do you think about the recent floods?" (but safer to avoid gossip and politics)

- Films, e.g. "Have you seen the film Bridget Jones's Diary?"

- Television, e.g. "Did you see The X Factor last night?"

- Music, e.g. "What sort of music do you like?"

- Books, e.g. "Have you read any good books recently?" (but only if you know the person likes reading)

- Sport, e.g. "Have you been watching Wimbledon?" (note that many British people, especially men, enjoy talking about football)

- Hobbies, e.g. "What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?"

- Business, e.g. "How's your business going?" (but only ask if you know the person has a business)

- Studies, e.g. "What are you studying?" (but only ask if you know the person is a student)

- Work, e.g. "What sort of work do you do?"

- Food, e.g. "I had a lovely Chinese meal last night - do you like Chinese food?"

- General matters about the person you are talking to, e.g. "Have you lived in this area long?"

- General matters on subjects that you know that interests the person you are talking to, e.g. cars, film stars etc.

An easy way to begin a discussion with a stranger (in a pub, queue, train, etc) is to talk about the weather. All British people have an opinion on the weather and most can tell you what the weather is due to do for the next 4/5 days. Being knowledgeable about the British weather is an essential part of living/visiting here. You will often see people carrying umbrellas (brollies) on roasting hot, sunny days because they know that it will rain later in the afternoon for about 20 minutes. You ignore this expert knowledge at your own risk. Remember - in Britain, there is no such thing as bad weather: there are only the wrong clothes. Avoid this by checking the forecasts in a paper, TV or radio broadcast or website.

Topics which are best avoided for small talk:

You may need to be careful when you talk about some topics, especially with people that you've only just met, people who are older than you, people who appear to have strong religious or political views, or people who may have some personal problems or sensitivities. For example, be cautious if you discuss these subjects:

- Age, e.g. "How old are you?"

- Appearance or weight, e.g. "You seem to have put on some weight"

- Personal gossip about somebody you know

- Jokes that might offend (especially sexist or racist jokes)

- Money, e.g. "How much do you earn?"

- Sex (some people have strong religious views about this, or are embarrassed by the subject)

- Previous or current relationships, e.g. "Do you have a girlfriend?"

- Politics, e.g. "Who did you vote for at the last election?"

Northern Ireland

- Religion, e.g. "Do you believe in God?"

- Criticisms or complaints, e.g. "Why is British food so bad?"

***

There are a number of situations in which it is common to leave a tip (sometimes called a gratuity), although you should not feel that you have to do this if you cannot afford to do so or if you were not happy with the service provided.

- Restaurant or café

Usually people only pay a tip in a restaurant or café when there is a waiter service (not for takeaway meals or self-service meals). Normally people add about 10% to the bill and make the amount a whole number of pounds. Check the menu and the bill to see if a service charge is already included in the price.

- Hairdresser's

It is common for people to leave a small tip (maybe one or two pounds) as a tip.

- Taxi

It is common to add 10% to the taxi fare.

- Hotel

You may want to give a small tip (perhaps 1 or 2 pounds) when a member of hotel staff gives you a special service. It is more polite if you do not show the money when you are giving it - put it in your hand, say thank you, shake the person's hand and press the money into the person's hand.

***

Smoking in all indoor public places (this includes platforms at train stations) in the UK is now illegal. Do not light up unless you are outside or in a designated smoking shelter. If you do light up in a shopping mall, pub or cinema, for example, you will find yourself thrown out rather swiftly and could get yourself fined £50 or even arrested.

Avoid talking loudly on your mobile/cell phone. It is considered highly ill-mannered, especially when in a quieter public place, such as a train, bus or library, and will probably earn you a stern rebuke mid-conversation.

The two classic signs a person would like to be left alone are reading a newspaper or listening to music through headphones. Only interrupt if you actually know the person.

When you enter or exit a room or building and someone is following you, it is well received for you to hold the door for them. On escalators and moving pavements, stand to the right and walk to the left, as a general rule. When getting off or on a public transport vehicle, you must allow people to disembark before you board. This is a requirement of public health & safety regulations and the driver/conductor can refuse you travel on the vehicle should you not comply.

Most members of the British public will happily provide you with directions if you approach them politely. Make sure you are familiar with terms like roundabouts, level crossings, traffic lights, zebra crossings, bus lanes, contra flow, and, if using any of the motorways, traffic jams.

BUSINESS IN BRITAIN

Despite their reputation for stiff formality, the British are in fact quite informal and the immediate use of first names is increasingly prevalent in all walks of British life, especially amongst the young (under 40-45 years of age) and in the newer industries.

Nevertheless, you should always wait to be invited to use first names before doing so yourself. Quite often the invitation will be spontaneous but it may never happen at all. Until then - and not all Britons like the up-front American approach - you should be careful to follow strict protocol, especially when dealing with older members of the 'Establishment.' No one is offended by exaggerated correctness whereas premature informality may be deemed presumptuous. Equally, it is best to avoid the American habit of constantly repeating someone’s name in the course of a conversation once on first-name terms.

The same principles apply to writing letters. You should start off formally and continue until your correspondent hints (e.g. by signing off with just his or her first name) that it is appropriate to switch. Some correspondences, however, may continue formally until the writers actually meet. Subordinates may never feel comfortable addressing their superiors by their first name either in writing or orally.

The rules for e-mail are more relaxed but there are some who write e-mails as if they were writing a ‘normal’ letter. In any case, there is no excuse for not using the spellchecker.

Different conventions apply when it comes to official documents, meetings, conferences etc. where it is common practice to use full titles even if all the participants would ordinarily be on first-name terms. Thus: ‘Mr Chairman’, ‘the Commander-in-Chief thinks’, ‘the Prime Minister is mistaken’, and so on.

***

Whilst younger, junior employees are perfectly capable of conducting negotiations at a distance, it is always desirable to send older, senior representatives to the United Kingdom for face-to-face discussions. This is not to say that British businessmen believe young people are incapable of performing the task, but there is an element of distrust of whizz-kids straight of business school with a gleaming MBA. This is particularly true of the manufacturing and financial sectors where many senior managers and even executives may have relatively few formal educational or professional qualifications but have worked their way up from the bottom. Attitudes are changing gradually but there remains a strong tradition in the UK of learning your trade ‘on the job’ and valuing experience more than certificates. Consequently, older people are often better able to assume the air of dignified authority that is respected in British business culture.

Similarly there are industries, notably manufacturing, in which there are comparatively few women in senior managerial positions even though women make up a higher percentage of the total workforce than in other EU countries. Sex discrimination is, of course, unlawful but many companies - particularly outside London and the major cities - are still be dominated by somewhat unreconstructed older males. In order to command respect and to assure counterparts of her competence, the travelling businesswoman should maintain a professional demeanour, display a detailed knowledge of her field and dress conservatively at all times. Regrettably, some of this advice is also relevant for non-whites.

***

In keeping with their undemonstrative nature, British businessmen approach their work in a detached way that regards objective facts and solid evidence as the only legitimate forms of persuasion; feelings and personal relationships are usually irrelevant.

Thorough preparation is important: you should bring a plentiful supply of business cards (which are normally exchanged at the end of a meeting) and ensure that you have the proper materials for making effective presentations.

Meetings can sometimes appear rather anarchic with little apparent structure or direction. This is in keeping with Britain's proud democratic tradition that allows everyone his or her say, but it can also be misleading. Whilst teamwork is important, British business culture remains essentially hierarchical. A wide range of input is valued and a consensus may be reached but the final decision still rests with the most powerful (usually, but not always, the most senior) individual who may or may not be chairing any given meeting.

***

Although British businessmen tend to emphasise short-term results rather than long-range objectives, they are generally interested in long-term relationships rather than quick deals.

Precedent plays an important part in decision-making. The British tend to follow established rules and practices and company policy is the primary authority at all levels of the organisation. A proposal stands a better chance of success if it conforms to the way things have been done in the past.

Decision-making can be a slow, deliberate process and rushing or putting pressure on the decision-maker is usually counterproductive; in the end, the Managing Director (the most senior executive in the majority of British companies) will reach a final decision that may be unilateral and is effectively irrevocable.

Attitudes to change and time tend to vary according to an age-industry matrix. Some older industries have the ability of a dinosaur and can bury new ideas in red tape for weeks if not months; on the other hand, younger enterprises can arrive at a plan of action for immediate implementation when the management team meets around a table. 'Now' means 'now', but 'I'll put it in the post' or 'I'll get back to you' may mean a long delay and maybe 'never' (rather like 'we must have lunch some time'). Agreements lead to contracts; if the British businessman is really serious, the lawyers will set to work more instantly. On the other hand, delivery may still not be as rapid as hoped or even agreed.

***

Be aware in your dealings that the British are masters of understatement and that irony is a favourite weapon. Direct questions may encounter evasive responses and other typically British ploys are to avoid stating the obvious and to imply the opposite of what is actually said. Tone of voice or facial expression may sometimes hint at what is really meant but not always and it is equally important to pay attention to what is not said.

Humour also plays an important role in business discussions; having a repertoire of jokes and anecdotes can be an asset and good raconteurs should make the most of their talent. In any case you should not be surprised by any seemingly inappropriate levity. On the other hand, the British are prone to using sarcasm, particularly the one-line jibe, to ridicule an adversary or to register disagreement or even contempt. This may be hurtful at the time but the British do not harbour long-term grudges for the most part.

Aggressive techniques such as the ‘hard sell’ or denigrating another company’s product or service will not be well received. Nor should you give unsolicited praise since it is rarely welcome. And do not gush - the British 'stiff upper lip' does not appreciate excessive enthusiasm.

Finally, once they decide that they want to do business with you, the British can be blunt, direct, and probably will not hesitate to speak their minds. They certainly will not be slow to say ‘no’ (however politely or obliquely).

***

An oral agreement may be considered binding, followed by written confirmation. Generally, only major agreements require legal procedures. Be discreet when you suggest contacting an attorney (called a solicitor in the United Kingdom).

The best way to make contact with senior executives is through a third party. The hierarchy in business is as follows: the managing director (equivalent to a CEO in the U.S.), the director (corporate vice president), the divisional officers, the deputy directors and the managers.

Businesspeople are normally more interested in short-term results than in long-term prospects. The British do not necessarily see change as a good thing. Generally speaking, the British do not often reveal excitement or other emotions (except at soccer matches, when anything can happen). Try to stay understated as well. Similarly, the British tend to refrain from extravagant claims about products or plans.

Avoid the conversation starter “What do you do?” The British may feel this question is too personal. Avoid controversial topics, such as politics or religion, and do not discuss comparative work ethics. Speak in complete sentences.

While the British are often self-critical, visitors should avoid joining in any criticisms—simply listen. Similarly, if they share their complaints with you, do not participate. The British apologize often, even for minor inconveniences. They also have a habit of adding a question to the end of a sentence. For example: “It’s a lovely day, isn’t it?”

***

Business breakfasts in hotels are becoming common and are starting to shift to a more streamlined Continental style, away from a large traditional breakfast of eggs, bacon, sausage, kippers and so on.

Lunch is generally between noon and 2:00 p.m. A casual business lunch will often mean a light meal in a pub. With senior executives, lunch will likely be eaten in the best restaurants or in the executive dining room. Dinner is generally from 7:00 to 11:00 p.m. in most restaurants.

Parliament recently passed legislation to ban smoking in enclosed public spaces in England, including pubs. Just as in Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, the traditional thick layer of smoke in pubs will be one more English tradition left by the wayside. If you do smoke (and it is permitted), always offer the cigarettes around to others before taking one for yourself.

During the official dinner you can smoke only after a toast to the Queen, and never before.

***

The English don’t usually use hand gestures in communication. English hands are usually kept firmly to English sides in all conversation. But they should be in sight at all times. It is considered very bad manners to talk to anyone with the hands in the pockets, as if preparing an instrument of aggression. The English man or woman will usually only use hand gestures when they are absolutely necessary such as for pointing the way (index finger of the right hand extended).

Always tell the truth to the British partner: if not, he or she will feel it. Control your feelings, when you are talking to an English man. Never show your emotions.

If you meet a person, do not ask him or her about his or her work and money.

If you want an Englishman to like you, speak about his garden — the English love gardening! The least dangerous topic in a conversation is about animals and pets.

The best presents are tickets to some famous theatre, sweets and flowers.

Use titles — sir, professor, etc. until you are told to use first names.

Never talk about business after the working day is over.

Be well prepared for a meeting with an English partner. Don't improvise or invent things when you are having a business talk. Avoid talks about politics, religion and the royal family.

Never give white lilies to the British; they are the symbol of death.

Don't be late! Coming on time is a must. You will be forgiven if you are ten minutes late, but you never will be, if you come ten minutes before time.

Do not wear a striped tie.

Never talk too much.

GOOD LUCK!

HAVE A NICE TRIP!

СПИСОК ИСПОЛЬЗУЕМОЙ ЛИТЕРАТУРЫ

1. Fox, Kate «Watching the English. The Hidden Rules of English Behaviour», Nicholas Brealey Publishing, 2008;
2. «Russia for Beginners. A Foreigner's Guide to Russia» (Коллектив авторов) The Moscow Times, 2009;
3. Овчинников Вс. «Корни дуба» (Впечатления и размышления об Англии и англичанах), «Новый мир» №№ 4-6, 1979;
4. Филиппова М.М. «Английский национальный характер», учебное пособие, Москва: АСТ «Астрель», 2006.

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