Business Etiquette for Visitors of Australia
Since the seasons are reversed from those of America you can depart in the winter and arrive to summer weather Pack accordingly. Dark, conservative suits are the norm but it’s acceptable to remove the jacket during the winter weather. Women’s dresses can be casual – even sleeveless in the warm weather.
Although in some countries it’s unacceptable to make continuous eye contact with someone, in Australia this shows confidence and honesty. It is not unusual for business meetings to contain discussions of religion as well as politics. Most subjects are open for debate, and sometimes, that’s what you’ll get. Australians can be very opinionated and even confrontational when discussing opinions that differ from others. Nothing negative is meant by it – argumentative discussions are seen more as entertainment. Humor can be injected into the argument without offense to any of the parties, usually.
Australians can tend to criticize themselves but if you criticize them or the country, or agree with their criticizing, it may not be well-received. Patting yourself on the back, or bragging about your accomplishments or those of your company are also things that won’t be taken well. It’s seen as arrogant to behave in this manner. Just be yourself and let your associates judge you and your company for who and what you are.
Refer to your associates as “Mr.”, “Mrs.” or even “Sir” but not on a first name basis until they do. It usually doesn’t take long before they begin and if they have referred to you by your first name, you are usually welcome to do the same. “Mate” is a term used to refer to anyone of the same sex as yourself – whether you are male or female. Saying “My mate” means you are friends.
Gift-giving is not something done abundantly between friends or associates in Australia, but it is acceptable to present a nice bottle of wine or something from America when invited to an associate’s home. The thoughtfulness behind the choice of the gift is much more appreciated than the cost itself.
Australians will take you at your word so don’t boast or promise things you can’t deliver. They don’t care for pushy sales pitches or people who have an attitude that they are better than others. Simply make your presentation and let the associates make their own decisions. Being casual and modest are the best approaches to business dealings with Australians. Although most topics are open for discussion during business meetings, personal lives are not. Avoid discussing your personal life at a business meeting. And don’t try excessive flattery because that will only raise suspicion.
Many women are still not treated equally in a business environment, so don’t take it personally. Instead, work towards proving to them that you are worthy of the position that you hold. If some ribbing is done, tease back, but only in a laughable way, not anything menacing or threatening. Steering wheels are on the right sides of cars and a woman traveling alone should only sit in the rear left side of a cab. To sit in the front or on the right is inappropriate.
It’s customary, while at a pub, to avoid business discussions unless approached by the Australian associate. In addition, each person is to purchase a round of drinks, called a “shout”. Not taking your turn for a shout makes you look cheap and uncooperative to the others. If you’re hosting a dinner at a restaurant the norm is to bring your own bottle. Many restaurants don’t serve alcohol and you’ll be expected to provide wine for the meal. Each person is normally responsible for their own tab during strictly casual affairs.
If you’re invited to a barbecue you’ll be expected to help yourself and act as though you are at home. To hesitate makes it appear as though you would like to be waited on rather than joining the group. Never drop in unannounced, since this is considered bad manners. Always call in advance before visitations. Ten percent is the recommended tip for dining at a restaurant, but it’s not necessary to tip cab drivers but you can if you like.
During conversation stay at least an arm’s length away from the person to whom you’re talking. Personal space is important to Australians and you’ll be seen as pushy and rude if you get any closer than that. Men should not outwardly show special attention to women, such as reaching over to touch the woman’s arm during conversation. Men should avoid touching or hugging other men as this is inappropriate behavior.
