The Latest! Cultural Clues, Do’s and Taboos for Ireland
A Series of Cultural Tips for Countries from A to Z
Cultural Clues & Communication Guidelines for Ireland
It’s easy for business travelers to think that even when they travel, business is going to be done pretty much the same way it is at home. But that’s not always the case. Cultural differences can have a big impact on global business etiquette. That’s why it’s important for business travelers to make sure that they understand the culture of the country that they’re doing business in.
This article on cultural differences in Ireland and cultural travel tips for Ireland is a brief snapshot of conversation guidelines for Ireland tips for communicating in Ireland, and business strategies for Ireland to help with understanding the culture in Ireland. It’s important to keep in mind that as we homogenize as a ‘global culture’, cultural tendencies change and evolve as well. Awareness is the first step when it comes to cultural do’s and taboos for Ireland and tips for intercultural communication!
Cultural Tips for Ireland – including some valuable business travel tips for Ireland
The Irish often have more of a relaxed attitude toward time. As a business traveler, however, you should always strive to be punctual for your appointments.
When meeting the Irish, the proper greeting is to shake hands and extend a warm greeting as you maintain eye contact. Handshakes should also be exchanged upon departure.
The Irish tend to value their personal space and will expect the same of you. If you speak in an animated manner, tone down your hand gestures.
Stand straight and sit with your feet situated flat on the floor. If men or women cross their legs, it shouldn’t be ankle over knee. It is preferable to cross ankle over ankle.
In a conversation between the Irish and visitors to the country, all participants are expected to maintain a low, moderate, tone of voice.
Among friends, family, and perhaps closer acquaintances, it’s permissible for the volume and display of emotions to become more pronounced.
The Irish are resolute about their independence from English rule. Consequently, in conversation, refrain from putting Irish culture in the same category as English culture.
Generalizations between cultures can jeopardize the business relationship you have worked to establish.
Keep your hands out of your pockets, particularly when speaking.
Avoid using the North American expression, “Have a nice day”. It will come across as sounding questionable.
Pointing is accomplished by using the head or chin, rather than the fingers. Touching one’s nose is a sign of confidentiality.
Use the index finger to indicate the number one, and the thumb for number five.
The peace sign or “V” made by extending the index and middle finger with the palm facing out, is an obscene gesture in Ireland and should be avoided.
In larger organizations, the boss is distinguished from others as the key decision-maker and authority figure. Subordinates usually do as they are told and may not readily express opinions or ideas unless asked.
The Irish tend to value a conservative demeanor, yet have an admiration for eccentrics, rebels, and artists.
Fewer women are a part of the higher ranks in Irish business culture, although they are slowly making progress.
If you place a high priority on having a tightly focused meeting, you will have to make some allowances. In general, the Irish don’t place much emphasis on closely following an agenda.
The Irish are far more animated speakers than the English. They can sometimes be described as prone to the legendary pastime of “blarney” or embellishing the truth.
The Irish tend to be very “down-to-earth”, so ensure that any information you give is sensible and realistic.
The Irish tend to be polite, attentive listeners and will restrain themselves from interrupting, so do the same.
Don’t put pressure on the decision-making process. Efforts of any kind to obtain direct information or force a faster decision will only damage your relationship.
5 Key Conversation or Cultural Gesture Tips
Irish writers such as Swift, Yeats, Joyce, Shaw, O’Casey, and Beckett have made great literary contributions. Knowledge and appreciation of Irish literature will ingratiate you with your Irish companions.
Your travels in Ireland
The Gaelic culture
Sports, especially Irish sports and football (Soccer)
Food, drink and fun!
5 Key Conversation or Cultural Gesture Taboos
Avoid discussing Irish politics
Religion and religious differences in Ireland
Comparing the lives of the native Irish with Irish-Americans
Sex and roles of the sexes
Any controversial social issue in Ireland
Bon Voyage!
Join us in the future for Do’s and Taboos for ISRAEL!
To learn more about the Dos and Taboos for different cultures, and the cultural communication styles for Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East – order Gayle Cotton’s bestselling book ‘SAY Anything to Anyone, Anywhere! 5 Keys to Successful Cross-Cultural Communication’ available on Amazon as a Book, eBook, or Audio Book
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Emmy Award Winner, Gayle Cotton, is the author of this blog and of the bestselling cross-cultural communication book ‘SAY Anything to Anyone, Anywhere! 5 Keys to Successful Cross-Cultural Communication’, which is available on Amazon as a Book, eBook, or Audio Book. She is President of Circles Of Excellence Inc. and a Professional Keynote Speaker. Contact Gayle if you need professional speakers for events, speakers on cultural diversity, conference speakers for events, or keynote speakers that specialize in cross-cultural training. She is a leader in the field of public speakers, motivational speakers, and international keynote speakers. She is among the best of female keynote speakers and women motivational speakers and is a ‘first choice’ request for international audiences!
Circles Of Excellence provides Corporate Training, Leadership Coaching, and Professional Keynote Speakers for companies of all sizes and in all industries, including over 50 Fortune 500 companies. Contact us about our customizedtraining programs for Communication Skills, Cross-Cultural Communication, Cultural Diversity, Customer Service, Leadership Coaching, Presentation Skills, Sales Negotiations, Stress Management, Team building, and Time Management Training.
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