If you are planning to work in Belgium as an expat, you might be wondering what the work culture is like in this small but diverse country. Belgium is located in the heart of Europe and has three official languages: Dutch, French, and German. It also hosts several European Union institutions and is home to many multinational companies. Therefore, you can expect to encounter a multicultural and multilingual working environment in Belgium.
However, there are also some specific aspects of Belgian business culture that you should be aware of before you start your professional journey there. In this blog post, we will provide you with some useful information and tips on how to navigate the Belgian workplace successfully.
Belgian business culture is influenced by its neighbouring countries, especially the Netherlands, Germany, and France. However, it also has its distinctive characteristics that reflect the country’s history, geography, and social values. Here are some of the key features of Belgian business culture that you should know:
Belgians tend to respect the authority and expertise of their superiors and expect clear instructions and guidance from them. However, they also appreciate a participative and consultative management style that allows them to express their opinions and ideas. Belgians are generally polite and formal in their communication with their bosses and colleagues, especially in the French-speaking part of the country. They address each other by their titles and surnames until they are invited to use first names.
Belgians prefer to make decisions based on consensus and compromise rather than confrontation and conflict. They value harmony and cooperation in the workplace and avoid direct criticism or confrontation. They tend to discuss issues thoroughly and consider different perspectives before reaching a final decision. Furthermore, they also expect to be informed and consulted about any changes or developments that affect their work.
Belgians are very punctual and expect others to be as well. They arrive on time for meetings and appointments and adhere to deadlines and schedules. They value efficiency and productivity in their work and expect high standards of quality and performance from themselves and others. They are well-organized and detail-oriented and like to plan ahead and follow procedures.
Belgians generally enjoy an effective work-life balance. They work to live, rather than the other way around, but generally manage to enjoy the business of working. However, being great enthusiasts for the good things in life, they make sure that both work and leisure receive equal attention. They usually work from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday, with an hour-long lunch break. They rarely work overtime or take work home unless it is absolutely necessary. They also value their personal time and privacy and do not like to mix their professional and personal lives too much.
Now that you have a general overview of Belgian business culture, here are some practical tips that can help you adapt to it more easily:
Although many Belgians speak English as a second or third language, especially in Brussels, it is advisable to learn at least one of the official languages of the country: Dutch, French, or German. This will help you communicate more effectively with your colleagues and clients, as well as show respect for their culture and identity. You can also learn some basic phrases or greetings in the other languages to impress your interlocutors.
Belgians dress conservatively and professionally for work, especially in formal settings such as meetings or presentations. Men usually wear suits and ties, while women wear dresses or skirts with jackets or blouses. Avoid wearing casual or flashy clothes or accessories that might be considered inappropriate or disrespectful.
Belgians take meetings seriously and expect them to be well-prepared and structured. They usually have a clear agenda and objective for each meeting and stick to it. They also expect participants to be well-informed and prepared to contribute to the discussion. Make sure you do your research beforehand and bring any relevant documents or materials with you. Be punctual, polite, attentive, and participative during the meeting. Avoid interrupting others or making jokes that might be misunderstood or offensive.
Belgians are generally reserved and cautious when dealing with new people. They prefer to establish trust and rapport before engaging in business or personal relationships. Therefore, do not expect to close a deal or make a friend on your first encounter. Instead, be patient, respectful, courteous, and reliable. Show interest in their culture, history, politics, sports, or hobbies. Avoid topics that might be sensitive or controversial, such as religion, ethnicity, or language issues.
Belgium is a diverse country with different linguistic, cultural, and regional identities. Therefore, be aware of and respect the differences and preferences of your colleagues and clients. Do not assume that all Belgians are the same or that they share the same opinions or values. Be flexible and adaptable to different situations and expectations. Do not make generalizations or stereotypes about Belgians or other nationalities.
Working in Belgium can be a rewarding experience for ex-pats, as long as they are willing to learn and adapt to the local business culture. By following the information and tips provided in this blog post, you can avoid potential misunderstandings or conflicts and establish positive and productive relationships with your Belgian counterparts. We hope you found this blog post useful and informative. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below.
