Scotland is the land of dreams, and visiting here for business will surely be an experience you’ll never forget. However, it’s easy to let expectations for your work trip’s location get the best of you and end up stressing out.
Most business visitors should find a trip to Scotland entirely stress-free, given the lack of a language barrier. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider the cultural nuances of doing business in Scotland before jetting over.
This business travel guide offers everything you need to know to make the most of your business time here and get things going smoothly.
- Faster Security Checkpoints – Heathrow Airport
A layover in London is likely if your final destination is Scotland on a transatlantic flight. Let us tell you, British security officials are not to be trifled with; as a result, we’ve learned the hard way to avoid last-minute booking connections and to check that your luggage won’t be flagged.
You’ll need immigration and security checks once you get to the UK. If your bag is selected for additional inspection, the TSA officers will take their time and carefully examine everything in your carry-on. In most cases, the delay is due to something trivial, such as a short form of liquid or gel, but it can last as long as half an hour.
- Don’t Get Stung by Expensive ATM Fees
If you plan on using an ATM while abroad, it’s a good idea to contact your bank ahead of time to see if they have any international partnerships that would allow you to avoid paying any costs. Typically, transaction fees are $5.
- Favourite Places to Stay
Even though most business travellers stay in hotels near the city centre, when it comes to properties to rent in Aberdeen, Scotland, there is a wide variety of lodging options, from cheap motels to five-star hotels. There are even serviced apartments available for more extended stays.
- Speak Soft
Speaking in a low, moderate tone of voice will help you get along better with business partners in Scotland. Scots are typically reserved and shy, so it could take more time to connect with them. Once trust is formed, they warm up and reveal more of themselves.
- Understand Their Culture
Be educated on Scottish customs so you can join in the discourse. Avoid making light of any part of their culture. Scots take pride in their history. Never compare Scots to English.
- Name-Calling Advice
To avoid offending a Scot when conducting business, it’s best to wait to use their first name until you’re formally introduced. Always address a man knighted by the Queen with the title “Sir,” followed by his first name. To address Sir Andrew Carnegie, for instance, you might say, “Sir Andrew.”
- Keep a Formal Demeanor at All Times & Arrive on Time
Punctuality is valued in all aspects of Scottish corporate culture. If you’re going to a dinner party, you should be there on time, too. Professionalism should be maintained even if the atmosphere of a meeting occasionally relaxes.
- Get Plenty of Business Cards
Printing business cards in languages other than English is illegal. Scottish businesses are eager to trade them, so stock up before you go.
- Knowing How to Navigate The “Chain of Command”
The level of respect accorded to different attendees at a conference might shed light on the formality of the “chain of command.” The managing director will play a significant role in making the ultimate call, but it’s often instructive to pay close attention to how the players interact.
To Sum Up
Scotland is stunning from the side of the road, but if you genuinely want to take in the country’s natural beauty, you should set aside some time for outdoor activities outside work. Something as simple as going for a stroll or riding an electric bike will do the trick.
