Communicating at work in Britain

Britons tend to soften: instead of You are wrong they say I see your point, but have you considered… and instead of I disagree I am not sure I agree entirely.

• And the phrase quite good may mean acceptable not very good, and with respect may precede criticism, and I will bear it in mind may mean I will not do it, and That is a brave idea may mean I do not agree.
• Learn to understand between the lines and notice the tone.
• And to soften your requests use Could you possibly…?
• and Would you mind…?
• and I was wondering if….
• Say please and thank you a lot, and apologise with sorry even when bumping.
• You are not expected to be vague, but politeness is valued, and you can be clear politely.
• And if you are direct by nature soften the tone but say what you want clearly.

Email is written politely: Dear Mr Smith or Hi Sarah depending on the relationship, then an introduction line such as I hope you are well, then the subject briefly in short paragraphs, then ending with Kind regards, Best wishes or Many thanks with your name.

• Each email has a clear subject.
• Use bullets for multiple points, and state what you request and its date.
• Attach files and refer to them.
• Read before sending.
• A reply within one working day is acceptable and expected, and if you cannot then state you will reply later.
• And messages on Teams and Slack are less formal and emojis are accepted in moderation.
• And cc email is used to inform others, and bcc to hide addresses.
• And take care not to send sensitive information to a wrong address.
• And avoid writing in all capitals since they are read as shouting.

Meetings usually start on time or minutes after, and the agenda is sent in advance and minutes and action points are recorded.

• Some start with brief small talk then enter the subject.
• People speak in turn, and an opportunity to comment may be available after the presentation.
• Do not interrupt sharply, and say Sorry to interrupt, but… if you wish.
• Express your opinion gently and using phrases such as Can I just add…?.
• Many managers encourage participation but may value calm and thought.
• In video meetings mute yourself when not speaking and use the raise hand feature.
• Before the end of the meeting what was agreed and who will do what is summarised.
• And it is polite to send a thank you after an important meeting.
• And if you cannot attend tell the organiser in advance.
• And smile and speak clearly.

Small talk about the weather, transport, the weekend, sport and television is part of daily life, and Britons begin it with How are you?

• and do not expect a detailed answer, since the usual answer is Fine, thanks.
• You?.
• Many relationships begin at the coffee machine, the kitchen or in the lift.
• Take part even with a short sentence.
• Humour and gentle sarcasm (self-deprecating humour) and wordplay are used, and joking with colleagues (banter) is a sign of acceptance not an insult.
• Avoid sensitive topics at first such as religion, politics, money, age and deep personal matters, and do not ask women their ages or people their salaries.
• And colleagues may be invited to the pub after work, and you can join with a soft drink without embarrassment, and this is accepted.

Feedback is often given in the sandwich style: a positive, then an improvement point, then a positive.

• And you may hear It might be worth considering… meaning you should do. Ask Could you give me an example?
• for clarification, and do not take it as an attack.
• When giving feedback begin with what is done well and specify the behaviour not the person.
• In disagreement speak to the person directly and tactfully first, then to the manager if not resolved.
• And for formal problems grievance procedures are available, a formal complaint via human resources.
• Report bullying, harassment or discrimination since it is against the law and the Equality Act and whistleblowing law protect you.
• Keep a log of the facts with dates.
• And talk to the union or Acas.
• And if you are Muslim you can request a prayer space and adjustments in holiday and Ramadan times tactfully, and many employers respond positively.

What may 'That is a brave idea' mean?