While crossing borders for doing business, simply having a good proposal may not be enough. For doing business in Europe – a colossal melange of several countries, it is extremely vital to know a lot about their specific cultures and style of doing business if you are to succeed.

So those of you who thought France is just a short train ride away from UK, and hence the mode of communication and business etiquette can’t be all that different; Well, it’s a good thing you chanced upon this article, as you are in for a real surprise…

•             Just like eating tapas is way different compared to relishing curry wurst; the differences in Spanish and German cultures are just as unique. Germans are known to be extremely business-like, to the point and really into facts and figures. As a business associate please don’t expect your client to invite you for beer and sausages at a local restaurant. Instead focus on getting your points across in a crisp manner so there is no room left for confusion. With Germans always plan your meetings at least few weeks in advance; they value their time way too much to accommodate you without a heads up.

•             Outgoing, warm and friendly, these are three words that can best describe Spanish folks. Expect to be invited for lunch meetings, and don’t be surprised if the meetings never start on time. Fairly laidback and relaxed, they also take time to know you before finalizing any business commitment. Also, remember that when approaching them to strike a long term deal, dress appropriately – a blend of chic and smart will be highly appreciated.

•             There is a lot more to the fashionable country of France than haute couture, gourmet cuisine and romantic getaways. Make sure to brush up on your linguistic skills before approaching your client. If you don’t have any background of the language, try and learn some basic greetings for a good first impression. The French like to conduct business professionally in an uncluttered fashion; good manners and polite conversations are definitely seen as plus points here. Some organizations in France may be too formal and kind of unfriendly; however, some companies may adopt a more relaxed approach. Not very finicky about being dot on time, the French will not take offence if you are fashionably late (not more than 15 minutes). But when you do show up, make sure to don the best labels in your closet. When bombarded with several questions regarding the business plan of action, be calm and factual; the over questioning may be to test your aptitude and interpersonal skills.

•             Strong networking skills and reference from other Italian companies will take you a long way while doing business in Italy. Dress well in this fashion forward place and make sure to socialize; do not decline any invitations as that can be viewed as disinterest or rudeness. Also, Italians totally love it when you are gung-ho about their food, culture and rich history. So go all out while breaking the ice with pleasantries.

•             While doing business in Great Britain please refrain from the notion that the words British and English are one and the same. Comprising of Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland and England, Great Britain has distinct cultural differences in all its regions. Everything from attire to style of doing business is rather conservative in Britain. Punctuality is an unwritten rule and these folks aren’t so easy to impress. But remember once you are in, you are in, as they like long-lasting business relationships; hence they take their time to trust others. Maintain eye contact during meetings; be polite and focus on key facts. Emotions hardly have much space in professional meetings in Britain.

•             Belgians are polite people who really value their time. While doing business in Belgium, stick to hand shakes and please refrain from being late for meetings. Whether your client will talk only business, or will spend time getting to know you better is very relative in Belgium. It is best to be prepared for both scenarios. In any case, some small talk is a great way to break the ice. Structured and very business-like in their approach, Belgians don’t take very long to strike a deal. Just sticking to hard-core facts and figures is not enough to win them over. It is vital to take sentiments also into consideration to build a strong, trusting relationship with your client.

•             Disciplined, practical and traditional – the Dutch do business the old fashion way. While doing business in Netherlands remember that the Dutch are broad-minded people and fairly tolerant of other people’s cultural differences. At the same time, they are reserved and display of affection of emotion is uncommon in business meetings. Modesty is held in very high regard in Netherlands. Refrain from boasting or exaggerating about your achievements.

So if you are interested in doing business in Europe, you may need the assistance of experienced professionals who understand the cultural and diverse differences, and can help you get your best foot in the front door.

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