I have been told british people are subtle - they do not openly show their disagreement.?

Question

How Will I know if I have crossed the limits with my british colleauge ? How do I take care I do not offend them at work or on social visits ?

Answer 1

Dont take a bath ! You'll blend right in !

Answer 2

Hello. What a kind and thoughtful question. I am assuming that you are American? The differences are: We are not as demonstrative, you don't hug a British man unless you are his closest friend or a relative. We don't discuss money (whenever I am on business in The states someone always asks how much I 'make!' which is rude to us). Depending on your Colleagues social class, you may be expected to stand up when his wife leaves a table, or enters a room for the first time, and you won't get close to him for ages, if at all! However, American's natural openness and friendliness often serves to 'open us up' a bit. Great good luck, we are nice people once you get to know us.

Answer 3

I'll tell you, my family is from England. Everyone right down to my oldest uncle was born there. They are not subtle. They'll tell you exactly what they mean and want. And if they don't like something, they won't be shy about it. If they cuss you, don't be offended though. They're much more open about how they talk. And if they sound a bit rough around the edges, don't worry about it or let it bother you. That's just how they are. You'll learn how to get used to it.

Answer 4

Don't believe everything you have been told, or watched on TV either. If in trouble, and don't know what to say, just let other people talk, and agree even when you don't. If asked a question, and don't want to answer, just answer with a question. Like:
British person in question: "Do you think that USA president should or should not be in Iraq?"
You: "Well, I am thinking about it every day of my life. What do you think?"
It is pretty easy, just need some practice. Good luck!

Answer 5

I don't think sublety applies to all British people anymore than goofiness appies to Mexicans. I think you should stop making generalizations about people and just treat them as individuals.

I'm sure you will know when you've crossed the line. But here's a concept - if you feel like you are going to do or say something that could be construed as "crossing a line" - just stop yourself and don't do it!

Answer 6

It depends how reserved your collegue is. I am british and the people I work with are all down to earth and not at all reserved on the whole and would soon show their disapproval of me as would I with them....in a nice way of course lol

You can't go far wrong just being yourself. You sound like a nice and thoughful person :o)

Answer 7

Bless your heart. Intension plays a role here you know. If it is not your intention to do so, I think that is very apparent. Also, I believe that you possess only half of the responsibility, If they care about your relationship as much as you do then I dont think youll have any problems that you both wont be willing to resolve.

Answer 8

you cant generalize some British people are about as subtle as a brick over the head

Answer 9

I think their smile gets a bit more forced, and they start losing eye contact. At least that's what I see with Hyacinth alienating her neighbors on "Keeping Up Appearances."

Answer 10

i think that some people won't openly show their disagreement because they're trying to be polite and believe that disagreeing would somehow make you feel bad.

Answer 11

I'm not sure how you'd offend him more than any other person. Just be respectful like you should be to all people...