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Canada is a diverse and multicultural country that welcomes people from all over the world. It is also a major trading partner for many countries, especially the United States. If you are planning to do business in Canada, you need to understand it’s unique business culture and etiquette to avoid misunderstandings and build trust with your Canadian counterparts.
What Are Some Characteristics of Canadian Business Culture?
Canadian business culture is a fusion of American, British, and French influences, with regional variations in practice. Many Canadians have strong feelings of provincial pride. The ideals of fairness, equality, diversity, and tolerance permeate all aspects of business life.
Canadians are generally polite, friendly, and informal. They value honesty, transparency, collaboration, and consensus. They prefer direct communication but avoid confrontation or criticism. They expect punctuality, professionalism, and courtesy from their business partners.
What Are Some Tips for Practicing Good Business Etiquette in Canada?
While business etiquette in Canada may vary depending on the region, industry and situation, there are some general guidelines that can help you make a good impression on your Canadian partners:
Greetings:
When meeting someone for the first time, make eye contact and provide a solid handshake. Unless otherwise specified, use first names. Before getting down to business, make small talk and smile.
Dress code:
Stick to the standard of tasteful modesty and neatness expected in your field. Don’t wear something too gaudy or sloppy. Males should dress formally in suits and ties, while women can choose between dresses with knee-length or longer skirts.
Meetings:
Schedule meetings well in advance and confirm them by email or phone. Arrive on time or slightly early; being late is considered rude and unprofessional. Bring copies of your agenda, presentation, and materials for everyone. Follow the lead of your host regarding seating arrangements, speaking order and topics of discussion.
Also Read: Top Corporate Meeting Spaces In USA Airports
Negotiations:
Be prepared with facts, figures, and references to support your proposals. Expect a lot of questions, clarifications, and discussions before reaching an agreement. Don’t be too aggressive or pushy; Canadians prefer a win-win approach rather than a hard bargain. Be patient and respectful of the decision-making process; it may take longer than you expect due to consultation with various stakeholders.
Gifts:
Gifts are not expected or required in most business situations. However, if you want to show appreciation or goodwill, you can bring something small and tasteful such as chocolates, wine, or airssist gift card “the hassle-free way to fly via any airport”. Don’t bring lilies as they are associated with death. Avoid giving anything too personal or expensive as it may be seen as bribery or inappropriate.
Dining:
Follow the host’s lead on what to order, how much to eat, and how to settle the bill at a business lunch or dinner. Unless the host initiates a conversation about business, guests should use mealtime to get to know each other on a more personal level. Avoid bad table manners such as slurping your soup or talking with your mouth full. Unless service charges are already reflected on the bill, a 15%-20% tip is customary.
Summary
Business culture and etiquette in Canada are influenced by its regional diversity, multiculturalism, and values of respect, equality, and justice. To succeed in doing business in Canada, you need to be punctual, professional, and polite; communicate clearly but diplomatically; negotiate fairly but firmly; and show interest in your partners as individuals as well as professionals.
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