If you are going to do business with companies abroad, it’s important to know about their business cultures. If you want to do business in Iceland, for instance, there are many differences between its business culture and the business culture in the United Kingdom. The experts from our translation agency have set out some tips in this article for companies and individuals.
- Names and Business Cards
It is the custom in Iceland to exchange business cards. This is not just a formality, but a severe aspect of the meeting. Take the time to check the person’s business card and that they can see that you have put it away carefully. Make a good impression by having your business card translated into Icelandic. Any written communication should also be translated, and make sure you use accurate
Icelandic translation services.
- Direct approach
Icelandic people are very direct, and it is sensible to adopt the same approach. You don’t have to spend a great deal of time carefully building personal relationships as you may have to in other countries.
- Communications
It is common for people in Iceland to be direct in their speech. This should be expected therefore and not taken offensively. English is widely spoken in business forums.
- Business Culture in Iceland
Business culture in Iceland tends to be relaxed and informal, and sometimes a bit unstructured. Coffee breaks are regular and socializing and having fun at work is supported, as it is believed that pleasant employees will be more productive.
- Social Equality
The key to famously doing business in Iceland understands the concept of social equality, a belief in the fundamental equality of people. People tend to place straightforward contact with the person who can make things moving.
- Decision Making
The chain of command is often quite flat, and decision-making models are based on agreement and understanding. Decisions may take a long time because of this, as many ideas need to be taken into account. Expats are required to engage in the conversations and need to bear in mind that decision-making may be a slow process in Iceland.
- The language
If you make sure that your business documents are translated into Icelandic, it’ll ensure that negotiations can proceed more smoothly. It’s also a means of making a good impression. We have a great deal of experience in the translation of all sorts of documents into and out of Icelandic. You’re also at the right place for the translation of your marketing campaign, business card, or website.
- Greeting
When you have a meeting in Iceland, it’s usual to greet each other by means of a handshake. It is the custom to shake everyone’s hand at the beginning and end of a meeting even. Assure that your handshake is strong and friendly, and make sure that you make eye contact when you do it. If you don’t, it may be interpreted as a lack of interest.
- Business dress code
Business determines business dress. The finance and sales areas are more formal and often need a suit, while technical staff can have a more casual dress code.
- Gifts
Several organizations have a policy restricting their employees from receiving gifts. If an expat wants to give a gift, it is better to request them out for dinner instead.
