BUSINESS IN... Australia
MULTICULTURALISM According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, Australia is a truly culturally diverse country. The most recent Census of Population and Housing reported that of Australia's 21.5 million people, about a quarter were born overseas, with a further 20 per cent of residents having at least one parent born overseas. More than half (53 per cent) of the population are third-plus generation Australians; those having one or more of their grandparents who may have been born overseas or who may have several generations of ancestors born in Australia. The result of this multiculturalism is that Australians are generally pretty relaxed about other cultures. If anything, they are concerned about what to do when they meet someone from a less diverse background, who might be more set in their cultural ways. Musson says: “Australians are likely to be unprepared if you have a preference, such as to bow or not to be touched. If you are comfortable in your own skin and good at your job, you will be respected for that. So be ready with a firm handshake, but if you prefer not to shake hands, say so early, to avoid embarrassment at that awkward moment.”
AN INFORMAL APPROACH Foreigners visiting Australia often greet everyone with “G’day” and call people “mate”. While Australians are generally very relaxed in their approach to foreigners, this sort of behaviour, putting on a fake accent, or using all the stereotypical slang words one can think of, makes for a bad first impression. Once you get to know your business partners a little better, don’t be surprised if they start calling you “mate” and sign off emails informally with “cheers”, but in general, Australian slang is best left to the Australians. Don’t try and be someone you’re not.
42 JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015
ATTIRE In general, dark suits and ties are
the norm for men in the capital cities, especially in Sydney and Melbourne. Light-coloured suits are often more associated with going to the races, weddings, and other more leisurely pursuits. Women either wear two-piece suits or smart dresses, preferably to just above the knee. However, in cities such as Brisbane and Darwin, the dress code is more relaxed, mostly due to the hotter climate, and short-sleeves and lighter colours are acceptable.
TALL POPPY
SYNDROME Australians are very modest and underplay their achievements rather than shout them from the
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