By 
A diverse and educated population, spirit of innovation, and diverse industries – not to mention being home to one of the world’s leading banking and financial centers – make the United Kingdom a frequent and desirable destination for international business travelers. Are you about to join them? Don’t do so without familiarizing yourself with the ins and outs of what makes a successful, stress-free UK business trip first.
Travel Documentation
Preparing all the necessary travel documentation in advance is essential for seamless admittance into the UK. US and Canadian visitors can enter with just their passports. However, border officials may also ask for additional documentation like a return ticket, proof of funds that shows you can support yourself while visiting, or accommodation booking.
Starting January 8, 2025, American business travelers will have to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). This electronic document will help monitor persons entering and leaving the country while simplifying and expediting approval for qualifying applicants.
Packing Considerations
The UK is notorious for its shifting and unpredictable weather. Make sure to layer your clothes and bring along a rain-resistant jacket. Temperatures regularly dip into the lower 60s even in summer in places like Northern England or Scotland, so pack accordingly.
When it comes to dress, British office culture leans towards business professionals. Gentlemen should bring a suit, dress shirt, and tie, while ladies won’t go wrong with a business suit or dress with a blazer. Both will want to pack a pair of formal footwear as well. You may even get away with business casual, especially during less formal after-hour events.
As for tech, a universal adapter is essential since Brits use a type-G plug with a voltage of 230V. Bring a powerbank to charge your gadgets even if an outlet isn’t nearby.
Transportation
You’re spoiled for choice regarding efficient transportation, especially in major hubs. For example, London’s Tube underground railway system is affordable and punctual. Black cabs are more expensive, but you can hail one, and it will drop you off at any exact address. Ridesharing services are available everywhere.
Car rentals are a good way of exploring past city limits. Remember that the British drive on the left side, and the driver’s seat is on the right. That’s not the only difference – you’ll want to familiarize yourself with local driving laws and learn how to navigate roundabouts before taking the wheel.
Accommodations
Whether they’re after a charming B&B during a shorter stay in rural areas or want all the amenities of a five-star hotel, business travelers accustomed to a certain standard of accommodations won’t find faults with the UK’s offerings. Even so, be sure to read reviews first and book some time in advance to get a better deal.
Alternatively, it may make sense to rent a serviced apartment if you’re staying in one place for a week or more. These furnished apartments offer everything you’ll need to feel at home when away, providing a more functional place to stay and work than a hotel room would.
Personal & Digital Safety
The UK is generally a safe place. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t use common sense and exercise caution, though.
Research the place you’ll be visiting for the most common scams and places it’s best to avoid alone at night. Keep valuables close by, and don’t flaunt your wealth in touristy destinations unless you want to attract the attention of local pickpockets. Let someone know if you plan on going on a day trip, and remember that 999 or 112 are the numbers to call in case of an emergency.
It’s crucial not to forget about your digital safety, either. You’ll likely be tempted to connect your smartphone and laptop to the Wi-Fi at your hotel or a coworking space to get some work done. While they’re accessible, tech-savvy criminals can tap into or clone such networks and monitor your online activities. This can have dire consequences if you happen to work with confidential company files or enter credentials while connected.
If you protect yourself with a virtual private network (VPN), you can still work remotely, communicate, and access company resources securely. The VPN uses an encrypted tunnel that surrounds your network connection, hiding your IP address and ensuring your activities remain confidential and untraceable by anyone who might otherwise be monitoring the connection.
However, you can take things up a notch and ditch public Wi-Fis altogether by using your mobile data plan. Keep in mind that roaming charges can be astronomical and finding a local SIM could be troublesome, though. So instead, get yourself a UK eSIM with a tethering capability. This way, not only will you secure your business data, but also minimize the risk of exposing your personal information
Business Etiquette
While universal behaviors like courtesy, professionalism, and respect for hierarchy will come naturally, some finer points of British business etiquette are worth remembering.
Punctuality is expected and valued, and you’ll need a compelling explanation for arriving late to meetings. British people will respond positively to a firm handshake in greeting but reserve more elaborate displays of affection for when you get to know them better. The British also tend to need more personal space than Americans, so don’t be surprised if they seem to be keeping their distance when conversing.
The British dry, sarcastic wit is as much a part of the nation’s identity as afternoon tea. While they don’t mind a laugh at their own expense, stick to neutral topics when talking with acquaintances and higher-ups.
Pedrovazpaulo Business Consultant for Your Success
Comments