ABOUT AUSTRALIA

Making Business

Please find below a summary of the elementary rules to respect if you are planning to make business in Australia. Australians in general are very open minded but would not be impressed by a demonstration of hierarchy at work or in private situations. You will not be judged by your title but by your personality. This sensitivity to an egalitarian world and the belief that everybody be treated equally result from the “fair go” attitude, a typical character of the Australian culture that allows anybody to go forward with their project, be it realised or not. They are fascinated with self made men or “underdogs”, actually people who made themselves on their own, who became rich and famous due to their perspicacity and strength of character and not thanks to long studies and networking.

The Geert Hofstede analysis shows the high level of individuality Australian's hold dear. This is reinforced in their daily lives and must be considered when traveling and doing business in the Country. Privacy is considered the norm and attempts at personal ingratiation may meet with rebuff. Uncertainty avoidance is relatively low with a family centered culture and a stable society. According to the Hofstede analysis, this is still a very masculine society, women not being much present in top management positions.

Appearance
- Men wear a conservative dark business suit and tie. Women may wear a dress, or skirt and blouse, for business.
- Informal clothing is appropriate when not attending business functions.
- Casual pants are fine for both men and women.
- Men should not become physically demonstrative with another man, or wink at a woman.

Behaviour
- Being punctual is critical.
- Maintain good eye contact during meetings and conversations.
- A single, male passenger using a taxi should sit in the front seat.
- Gift giving is not a common practice in business.
- You may bring a small gift of chocolate, wine or flowers if invited to someone's home.
- When paying for a round of drinks, do not pick up the tab out of turn, and make sure to pay when it is your turn.
- Should you approach a line/queue, go to the end/back and wait your turn.
- Do not litter.

Communications
- English is the spoken language.
- Shake hands when meeting and when leaving.
- Although uncommon, some women may greet each other with a kiss on the cheek.
- Exchanging business cards is common among professional workers.
- Australians are friendly and open, but directness and brevity are valued.
- Opinions are respected, and opinionated discussions are entertaining.
- Be an active listener, and ask if you do not understand something in the conversation.
- Do not hype yourself, your company or your information.
- Sightseeing and sports are good conversational topics.
- Afternoon tea is about 4:00pm. Tea is between 6:00 - 8:00pm and is an evening meal.
- Supper is a late night light meal or snack.

To have further information about “business etiquette” in Australia, you can buy some professional documentation online: www.worldbiz.com. Otherwise we recommend you to contact the closest Austrade office in your country or the Chamber of Commerce in the city you are planning to make business.

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