I am frequently asked by Swedish clients what should be avoided at international meetings involving my compatriots. There are many things that I could list. Most of which would not make a Swede bat an eyelid*. However, they would most definitely make a native speaker cringe**.

One such example I am reflecting on this wintry afternoon is the expression, ‘Let’s get down to business,’ It is one thing for a chairperson to use it to instil order into chatty board members; quite another when conversing to someone you have never met before.

In the latter case, it really means that the small talk pleasantries before the meeting began were just a mere formality and it is only the business of the day which I am really interested in. Worst case scenario it means, “let’s hurry up, I have more important business to deal with after.” On the EQ scale it scores a bigger minus than the recent weather. However, I can see the attraction in it for Swedes and Finns who tend to like a clear and linear flow to their meetings. Therefore, what a nice ‘definer’ let’s get down to business really is, isn’t it? We have had our 5 minutes of small talk (Swedes) or 45 seconds (Finns) let’s now get down to the next stage.

Hmmm.

What it actually means is that all that small talk about how I got there, the weather when I left London, my tomatoes and how they are ruined each year and so on is all of secondary importance to the business to be discussed. This, to put it diplomatically, can be infuriating.

You see, a Brit considers the chitter chatter to be as important as the business itself, if not more. Your ability to dissect and analyse the weather can count for far more than your offer. An American would consider the small talk as part of the business especially if there is a geographical aspect to it. Outside the English-speaking world we all know that an Italian has already made up his/her mind after careful consideration of your shoes and the relationship-building small talk.

Having a clear definer like ‘let’s get down to business’ is out of the question.

Moving from small talk to the business of the day is an art. Next week, I will suggest a way that this can be performed smoothly. In the meantime, let me know your thoughts on how YOU would do it. So, when the frozen Brit pops out from his garden shed to study the shrivelled vegetable patch; he or she may still have a pleasant memory of that meeting with you, and that you cared.

*Not bat an eyelid = show no surprise

**cringe = to flinch; draw back

© Andrew Davies, Communicoach 2010