Business Etiquette When Travelling

Why Business Etiquette Matters Abroad

Working with international partners and clients is now routine for many UK businesses. Digital communication has made it easier to connect across borders, but face to face meetings still play a central role in building trust and closing deals.

When you travel abroad for business, you carry your company's reputation with you. Small gestures, greetings, and conversational habits that seem unremarkable at home can land differently elsewhere. A minor misstep rarely causes lasting damage, but repeated lapses may suggest carelessness or a lack of respect.

Good etiquette is not about performing or being overly formal. It simply means paying attention, being considerate, and adjusting your approach where needed. This applies whether you are visiting a client in Frankfurt, attending a trade fair in Tokyo, or meeting suppliers in Dubai.

Etiquette Packing Guide

Generates a behaviour and dress code checklist tailored to your specific trip.

Try our Etiquette Packing Guide free, here on this site →

Preparing Before You Travel

A little research goes a long way. Before your trip, spend time learning about business customs in your destination country. Focus on practical matters: how meetings typically run, whether punctuality expectations differ, and what dress codes apply.

Consider these areas:

• Greetings. Handshakes remain common in many countries, though the firmness and duration vary. Some cultures prefer a slight bow or nod alongside the handshake. Others may greet with a kiss on both cheeks in social settings but not in formal business contexts. Be aware that greeting norms have also shifted since the pandemic, with some professionals now preferring less physical contact. Watch for cues and follow your host's lead.
• Business cards. In countries such as Japan, South Korea, and China, exchanging business cards follows a particular ritual. Present and receive cards with both hands, take a moment to read the card, and avoid writing on it or placing it carelessly in your pocket.
• Gift giving. Bringing a small gift is appreciated in some cultures and may be seen as inappropriate or even suspicious in others. If you do give a gift, presentation matters. Research local customs around wrapping and what items to avoid.
• Titles and names. Some cultures place greater emphasis on formal titles and family names. Using first names too quickly can seem presumptuous. When uncertain, err on the side of formality until invited to do otherwise.

The Department for Business and Trade provides country guides covering local business practices. These can be a useful starting point for UK exporters and anyone attending meetings overseas, though it is worth checking that the information is current before you travel.

Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.

During Meetings and Social Events

Punctuality expectations differ around the world. In Germany, Switzerland, and Japan, arriving late to a meeting is considered disrespectful. In other regions, schedules may be treated more flexibly, and meetings often start after some informal conversation.

Pay attention to how your hosts conduct themselves and follow their lead. If they move straight into business, do the same. If they prefer to chat first, resist the urge to rush proceedings. Building relationships often matters more than getting through an agenda quickly.

Dining can be difficult to navigate if you are unfamiliar with local customs. Seating arrangements, toasting rituals, and table manners all vary. In some countries, leaving food on your plate signals that you have had enough. In others, it may seem wasteful or rude. If you are unsure, observe your hosts or ask politely.

Alcohol is another area where customs differ widely. In some business cultures, drinking together is part of building trust. Elsewhere, alcohol may be avoided entirely. Know what to expect and do not assume your own habits are universal.

Communication and Follow Up

Language barriers can complicate business travel. While English is widely used in international business, do not assume everyone you meet will be comfortable speaking it. Speaking slowly, avoiding slang, and choosing straightforward words will help. If your hosts are making an effort to speak your language, show appreciation and patience. Consider learning a few basic phrases in the local language as a courtesy.

Non verbal communication carries weight too. Eye contact, gestures, and personal space all differ between cultures. A thumbs up, for example, is considered offensive in some Middle Eastern countries. Before you travel, check whether any common British gestures might be misread.

If your trip includes video calls before or after the in person meetings, treat them with the same professionalism. Use a neutral background, maintain eye contact with the camera, and dress appropriately even when calling from your hotel room.

After your trip, follow up promptly. A short email thanking your hosts for their time is usually welcome. If you agreed to send materials or information, do so without delay. Keeping your word on small things builds confidence for larger commitments.

Navigating business etiquette abroad involves preparation, observation, and a willingness to adapt. You do not need to become an expert in every culture you visit. Showing genuine respect and staying alert to how things are done locally will serve you well.

The Next Step

Now that you have read through the advice above, you might want to put it into practice. Our Etiquette Packing Guide lets you generates a behaviour and dress code checklist tailored to your specific trip. Try it now →