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The People

The Irish are interested in people and place great value on the individual. They are naturally courteous, quick-witted and will go out of their way to welcome visitors to their country. Don't rush the Irish. Although they work very hard, the Irish are dedicated to a less stressful lifestyle that allows time for friends and family, a visit to the pub, a cup of tea, or just a bit of a chat on the corner. Families are closely-knit and very important to the Irish.

Meeting and Greeting

 Shake hands with everyone present -- men, women and children -- at a business or social gathering. Shake hands again when leaving.

 A firm handshake with eye contact is expected.

Body Language

 The Irish are not very physically demonstrative and are not comfortable with public displays of affection.

 The Irish are uncomfortable with loud, aggressive, and arrogant behavior.

 A "Reverse V for victory" gesture is considered obscene.

Corporate Culture

 Business is best initiated through a well-connected third party. Who you know may be vital to your business success.

 The Irish are not very time conscious and may not be punctual for business and social meetings. They have a relaxed sense of time and may be a little late for meetings. However, a foreigner should be on time for business meetings.

 Business cards are exchanged, but not necessarily immediately upon meeting.

 Irish people tend to be creative and calm in a crisis. They prefer to improvise rather than follow a rigid plan.

 Outwardly the Irish accept authority but inwardly have strong displeasure in accepting it. They also dislike bureaucracy.

 Planning and strategy are short term. Irish tend to be poor in long-range planning.

 Don't be misled by the easy going and amiable attitudes of the Irish. In negotiations, the Irish are astute and tenacious.

 The golf course is a major venue for conducting business in Ireland.

Dining and Entertainment

 Business entertainment is commonly conducted in restaurants.

 Business dinners are usually considered more of a social occasion and a good way to develop relationships.

 Spouses may or may not be invited to a business dinner.

 The small plate next to a dinner plate is for peelings removed from boiled potatoes.

 It is polite to eat everything served to you in a private home.

 Table manners are the same as in England, only a bit more relaxed.

 Refusing a drink can be perceived as insult in Ireland.

 Always buy your round of drinks.

Gifts

 Gift giving and receiving is unusual in a business setting. Small gifts may be exchanged, but are not expected, at the successful conclusion of negotiations.

 When invited to someone's home, always bring a small gift for the hostess. Give flowers (lilies are for religious occasions only; red and white flowers symbolize death), chocolates, a bottle of wine or continental cheeses.

 Do not give expensive or ostentatious gifts.

Helpful Hints

 The Irish respect reserved behavior. Initial meetings should be low key.

 Assume that children will be included in family entertaining.

 Send a thank-you note after receiving a gift or being a dinner guest.

 Always be sincere. The Irish dislike pretentious behavior.

 Remember the Irish want to do things their way. You will not succeed if you insist on doing it "your way."

8. Socializing and Conversation

 DO be friendly. When walking around small towns and villages, it's common to say "hello" to everyone you pass by.

 DON'T confuse Ireland with England. The Irish are proud of their cultural

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