Proper Etiquette for Visiting Canada

Many people think Canada and United States are very similar when it comes to customs but actually, the two can be totally different under certain circumstances. It’s true that Canada has approximately the same business hours as the U.S. – 9 to 5 – but some of their other practices are much different. For example, when writing dates, we usually write the month, day and year, whereas Canadians write the day, then month, then year. This is a minor adjustment for most business people.

For business meetings, be punctual but for social appointments the accepted lateness is about 15 to 30 minutes. Later than that is considered rude, just as being early is. Many businesses are closed on Sundays but in large cities, some remain open. There are many corner shops where you can purchase gas and staples, just like in the U.S.

Dressing is slightly different than in the U.S.: although it’s customary to dress well for business meetings, the latest fashions are not a must. As long as clothing is neat and not too casual it’s totally acceptable. So if your favorite suit is out of style, but still looks good, it’s appropriate to wear it. Since it’s extremely cold in Canada during the winter months, bring along boots, hat, scarf and gloves. Jeans and tee shirts are perfect for casual wear.

Choose scents carefully and avoid wearing them in business meetings, for the most part. Strong scents are not acceptable for an office setting and in some places, such as many doctor’s offices, are prohibited.

Address business associates as “Mr.” or “Mrs.” and the last name, until asked to do otherwise. If a person has a particular title, such as “Dr.”, use this title and last name. And don’t be fooled by the fact that a Canadian may call you by your first name over the phone. In person they will use proper names, usually. Do the same until invited to do otherwise. Many Canadians have French names which are difficult for some people to pronounce. Find out the proper pronunciation of the name before the meeting to spare yourself embarrassment.

Thinking of giving a gift to a Canadian associate? Then do so after a deal is finalized. This is almost expected. It is also acceptable to offer gifts upon your initial introduction, in person. A tasteful gift from home is often appreciated. Christmastime brings much gift-giving. When invited to a home, flowers are fine but avoid white lilies which are normally reserved for funerals and deaths. Red roses are associated with romance so avoid those as well. Perfume and clothing gifts are considered much too personal.

For business purposes, have documents, business cards, and such printed in English as well as French. Know in advance if the associates with whom you’ll be dealing speak only French. If so, it may be necessary to bring a translator.

In a business setting, keep your demeanor formal. Loud, boisterous talk or overly dramatic gestures are not appreciated. Avoid talk of personal topics during business meetings.

Business lunches are a common practice, but pass on the alcohol as your associates probably will, during lunch, at least. When summoning a waiter or waitress, make a simple waving motion in the air. Do not snap fingers or call out. Make a writing motion in the air when you are ready for the check. A 15% gratuity is expected if the service was good. When invited to a home for dining, do not partake of food or drink until the host or hostess has.

Handshakes are acceptable for introductions and agreements but men should wait for a woman to offer her hand. Traditional greetings such as “Good Morning” or “Good Night” are the norm in Canada. Basic manners, such as found in the U.S., are usually acceptable for Canada as well. Holding doors open for another, speaking in non-boasting tones and saying “please” and “thank you” are appropriate.