When in Australia

Relationships & communication

• 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 self-deprecating, in their speech.
  
• Aussies often use colourful language (swear words) that would be unthinkable in other countries.

Business meeting etiquette

• Appointments are necessary and relatively easy to schedule.
  
• They should be made with as much lead time as possible.
  
• Punctuality is important in business situations. It is better to arrive a few minutes early than to keep someone waiting.
  
• Meetings are generally relaxed; however, they are serious events.
  
• If an Australian takes exception to something that you say, they will tell you so.
  
• If you make a presentation, avoid hype, making exaggerated claims, or bells and whistles.
  
• Present your business case with facts and figures. Emotions and feelings are 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 are quite direct and expect the same in return. They appreciate brevity and are not impressed by too much detail.
  
• Negotiations proceed quickly. Bargaining is not customary. 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 and protracted.

What to wear?

• Business dress is conservative in Melbourne and Sydney.
  
• Men should wear a dark coloured, conservative business suit.
• Women should wear a smart dress or a business suit.
  
• In Brisbane or other tropical areas, depending on the job function and company culture, men may wear shirts, ties and Bermuda shorts.

Business cards

• Business cards are exchanged at the initial introduction without formal ritual.
  
• If you are not given a business card, it is not an insult; the person simply may not have one.
•  It would be wise to have some cards translated and printed in English before you leave China. Make sure the printing is carefully double-checked for accuracy for the email address and telephone numbers.

(source: www.kwintessential.co.uk)

Survival tips

• Do not litter.
• Do not smoke in meetings or public places.
• Do not talk too loudly
• If you need to clear your throat or nose, it’s usual to use a tissue.
• It is considered rude to stare at people.
• Many Australians want to be treated as individuals. Their concept of government is that it exists to serve them, not the other way around.
• Australians grow up believing that people should have equal social and legal rights.
• Issues might e discussed which you would consider embarrassing or rude: try not to be offended.
• Men usually shake hands firmly the first time they meet. Women often do not shake hands.
• Be punctual for your appointments or within about 10 minutes.
• It is customary to say “please” and “thank you”.
• Nobody has servants in Australia. Husbands frequently share in household duties.
• The giving of tips to waiters, taxi drivers and hotel staff is optional in Australia.
• Do not slam car doors.
• In Australia it is customary for the audience to remain silent during a public performance or film.
• Try to observe people, listen to them and ask questions.
• Try to learn to laugh at your mistakes. People will be happy to help if you are relaxed and ready to learn.
• Try new food, see as many places as you can, and make new friends.