UK culture
The UK is a multicultural country, there are people coming from many different backgrounds and we blend many cultures, religions, and beliefs into one society. Both our personal lives and professional interactions reflect a blend of cultures.
Language
There is not an official national language, but English is the de facto language used in all official government proceedings, street signs, and in all major stores, restaurants, etc. And while English is the primary language spoken at home by the majority of the population, there are many other languages spoken by people from different backgrounds.
Religion
The UK’s official religion is Christianity, and churches of all denominations can be found throughout the UK, such as Catholic, Protestant, Baptist and Methodist. The main other religions are Islam, Hinduism, Sikhism, Judaism and Buddhism.
Whatever religion you practice - or don’t practice - you will be able to find a community of like-minded individuals with whom to celebrate, should you choose to do so.
Professional presentation
It is customary when meeting an individual in a professional setting that you will either shake hands to greet each other or have no physical contact. It is not customary to greet anyone by giving a hug or otherwise invading the personal space of another.
You may present your business card in a professional or networking setting, but you might not receive one in turn. Often, individuals will not immediately share their business card or contact information. When exchanging business card, there is no proper etiquette. While some individuals will only briefly glance at the card before putting it into the jacket or pants pocket, others take a lengthy look, grasping the card with two hands and placing the card in front of them at the table, if seated. This is likely due to individuals having greater contact with business colleagues in Asian countries, where this type of attention and behaviour is customary.
Do not include a photograph on your resume, as well as personal details such as date of birth, marital status, nationality, or physical characteristics.