Doing Business in Scotland | Navigating Business Culture

Scotland, nestled in the northern part of the United Kingdom, boasts a diverse landscape covering about 30,000 square miles. To the south, it shares a border with England, while to the east, west and north, the country is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea. The breathtaking Highlands, historic castles, and vibrant cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow contribute to Scotland's rich cultural tapestry.

Scotland's history reflects a remarkable narrative of resilience and independence. Unlike many regions conquered by the Romans, Scotland's rugged terrain and determined clans thwarted their advances. Remaining unconquered, Scotland went on to carve its independent path until the pivotal union with England in 1707, forming the Kingdom of Great Britain. Edinburgh, the capital, emerged as a significant political and cultural hub, symbolising the enduring spirit of a nation that, despite political shifts, retained its distinctive traditions, deep-rooted pride, and unwavering sense of identity. This union marked a transformative chapter in Scotland's history, emphasising the fusion of tradition and progress that continues to shape its cultural landscape.

Scotland has a population of around 5.5 million, which is less than 10% of the total population of the UK which is approximately 67 million.

Culturally, Scotland is marked by its traditional music, dance, and the iconic sound of bagpipes. The Scottish people take great pride in their history, with famous figures like Robert Burns, Sir Walter Scott, and Mary Queen of Scots holding a special place in their hearts. While English is the main language of the country, there are actually two other official languages, Scots and Scottish Gaelic, spoken by approximately 1.5 million and 60,000 people respectively.

The concept of community is highly valued in Scottish culture. Family ties and social gatherings, often centred around celebrations like St Andrew's Day, are integral. St Andrew's Day is celebrated annually on November 30th and commemorates the patron saint of Scotland. It involves various festivities, including traditional foods, music, and cultural events. Scottish people commonly eat haggis, the national dish, with neeps (turnip), and tatties (mashed potato) on this day.

When meeting someone in Scotland, a warm and friendly approach is appreciated. A firm handshake and maintaining eye contact are customary. Scots are generally open and direct in their communication style, and a sense of humour is often welcomed.

Building trust is crucial in Scottish relationships. While initial interactions may be reserved, once a bond is formed, it tends to be enduring. Trust is fostered through honesty, reliability, and a genuine interest in others' well-being.

Scotland exhibits a mix of traditional and modern business practices. Punctuality and professionalism are highly regarded. Meetings are often structured, with a focus on thorough preparation and substantive contributions. Decision-making processes may involve careful analysis and discussions.

In the business realm, a collaborative leadership style is becoming more prevalent, emphasising inclusivity and teamwork. While respect for authority is present, open discussions and differing opinions are usually welcomed.

As for St Andrew's Day, it's an excellent opportunity to engage with Scottish colleagues. Familiarising yourself with the traditions of the event and expressing appreciation for St Andrew's contributions to Scottish culture can be a valuable way to connect.

Other key holidays in Scotland include Burns Night, celebrating poet Robert Burns on January 25th, featuring traditional fare and poetry readings, and Hogmanay, Scotland's lively New Year's Eve celebration known for street parties and the unique "first-footing" tradition in which to ensure good luck for a person’s house, the first foot, or the first person to enter a house after midnight, should be a dark-haired male, and he should bring with him symbolic pieces of coal, shortbread, salt, black bun and a wee dram of whisky!