Working and Living in the UK

Overview

Our briefing is ideal both for the working employee recently arrived in the UK and for any partner, spouse or children involved in the move.  In the latter instance, our course can be delivered at home if preferred.

Course Content

Briefing and discussion:  British history and geography, land, climate and resources, British ‘identity’, multi-cultural Britain, family life, class structure, religion, immigration, the North-South divide; attitudes to the EU, etc..

Know How They See You: What image do the British have of your culture?  What positive or negative stereotypes do they have of you? How can you modify your behaviour to overcome any negative or stereotypical views?

Communicating Effectively: How should you communicate with your British business partners and friends in order to avoid misunderstandings? How explicit or implicit will their communication be? How can you adapt your style to ensure you communicate successfully with them? Written versus spoken communication.

• Business: functional or personal? Breaking the ice and developing the relationship; handling social situations; humour.
• Meetings: handling agendas; time keeping; chairing; getting agreement; reaching consensus.
• Presenting your case: How formal or informal? Persuading; motivating; structuring your arguments; keeping their attention; handling objections.
• Leadership style: managing your team; delegating; the role of the boss; business and social hierarchy; team working; giving and receiving feedback.
• Negotiating: Clarifying information; testing assumptions; the tactical approach; persuading and motivating the British way; building relationships; win-win approach.

Living in the UK - The practicalities

Getting started: Renting or buying a property, bank accounts; going shopping

Socialising: British dinner parties, small talk - what to talk about and what to avoid; appreciating their food and drink; punctuality; giving gifts; what to wear;

British politics, economics and social trends: The political system; recent economic performance; the pension system; savings; consumption; ownership of property; taxation; laws; low birth-rate; immigration.

Strategies for Working and Living Effectively Together: an action plan of practical do’s and don’ts. What to do and what to avoid when working with your British partners. Practical and useful tips that will help cement relationships and get the best out of multi-cultural working