Australian Business Culture

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Fact File
Official name: Commonwealth of Australia Location: Oceania, continent between the Indian Ocean and the South Pacific Ocean Capital: Canberra Population: estimated for 2011 22.708.583 Ethnic Make-up: Caucasian 92%, Asian 7%, Aboriginal 1% Religions: Anglican 26.1%, Roman Catholic 26%, other Christian 24.3%, nonChristian 11%, other 12.6% Government: Federal parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy

Aussie Modesty
Key Concepts : Egalitarianism, Openness, Individualism; Australians are very down to earth and always mindful of, not giving the impression that they think they are better than anyone else. Values: authenticity, sincerity, and loathe pretentiousness. Australians prefer people who are modest, humble, and with a sense of humour.

Relationships & Communication styles

Australians are very matter of fact when it comes to business so do not need long-standing personal relationships before they do business with people. Australians are very direct in the way they communicate. There is often an element of humour, often selfdeprecating, in their speech. Aussies often use colourful language that would be unthinkable in other countries.

Appearance
Business dress is conservative in big cities. Men should wear a dark coloured, conservative business suit. Women should wear a smart dress or a business suit. Avoid excessive jewellery and accessories.

Gift Giving Etiquette

Not a common practice in business. You may bring a small gift of chocolate, wine or flowers if invited to someone's home. Gifts are opened when received. Business cards are exchanged at the initial introduction without formal ritual.

Working practices & Business Meeting Etiquette

Greetings are casual and relaxed: a handshake and smile. While an Australian may say, 'G'day' or 'G'day, mate', this may sound patronizing from a foreigner. Visitors should simply say, 'Hello' or 'Hello, how are you? Use first names, even at the initial meeting. Schedule your business appointments approximately one week in advance. Punctuality is considered a virtue in Australia. Business hours: 9.00 am to 5.00 p.m., Monday to Friday . Emotions and feelings - not important in the Australian business climate.

Negotiating and Decision Making

Australians get down to business quickly with a minimum amount of small talk. They appreciate brevity and are not impressed by too much detail. Negotiations proceed quickly. They will expect your initial proposal to have only a small margin for negotiation. They do not like high-pressure techniques. Decision-making is concentrated at the top of the company, although decisions are made after consultation with subordinates, which can make decision making slow.

Do s and Don ts
 DO partake in some initial small talk before a business meeting begins.  DO keep a certain amount of distance when in conversation with your Australian counterparts.  DO maintain good, direct eye contact with your Australian colleagues during all business meetings and conversations as this helps to establish trust. DON T discuss aspects of your personal life during business negotiations. DON T use aggressive sales techniques during negotiations. DON T over exaggerate about your company s abilities or build up business information. Selfimportance is not a favoured quality in Australian culture.

DON T BE MEETINGS!

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