BRITISH ETIQUETTE. Great Britain and Russia: Are we different or alike?

Aim: to improve students’ cultural background concerning social etiquette in GB in order to become culturally aware and study general rules of English behaviour. Tasks: - to select information about English etiquette and study different aspects of the English behaviour; - to compare British and Russian character; - to make students’ survey to find out their awareness about English etiquette; to make a conclusion about general rules of behaviour. Hypothesis: If we know some distinctive features and similarities of social etiquette of two nations, we can just accept the rules set in these countries and make ourselves feel at ease in any of them.

What is Etiquette? The customary code of polite behaviour in society or among members of a particular profession or group (the Oxford English Dictionary definition).

Types of Etiquette Speech Civil Dining Etiquette Court Wedding Diplomatic Business Religious

The English behavior An Englishman is a person who does things because they have been done before. Mark Twain Every culture across the ages has been defined by the concept of etiquette and accepted social interaction. However, it is the British – and the English in particular – who have historically been known to place a great deal of importance in good manners. Whether it be in relation to speech, timeliness, body language or dining, politeness is key.

British Etiquette and Customs you should learn There is a proper way to act in most situations concerning visiting and greeting; gift giving etiquette; queuing; punctuality; dining etiquette; making friends; tipping; how to behave in public places; body language; dress code; thank you/I’m sorry/please.

DOs and DON’Ts in England Do stand in line; Do take your hat off when you go indoors (men only); Do say "Excuse Me“, "Please" and "Thank you"; Do pay as you go; Do cover your mouth when yawning or coughing; Do shake hands when you are first introduced to someone; Do say sorry if you accidentally bump into someone; Do smile - a smiling face is a welcoming face; Do open doors for other people; Do not greet people with a kiss; Avoid talking loudly in public; It is impolite to stare at anyone in public; Do not ask a lady her age; Do not pick your nose in public; Avoid doing gestures such as backslapping and hugging; Do not spit; Do not ask personal or intimate questions.

The English speech etiquette Even if your speech is correct, it can be difficult to know how to start a conversation, especially if your first language is not English. Everyone should know about “small talk” in England.

Which topics are safe for small talk? Introductions Travel Family Hospitality The weather Holidays Nature Pets General news Films Work Food General matters about the person you are talking to General matters on subjects that you know

Which topics should be avoided? Age Appearance or weight Personal gossip Jokes that might offend Money Previous or current relationships Politics Religion Criticisms or complaints

Etiquette and Customs in Russia

Rules of behaviour in Russia Everyone should pay attention to meeting etiquette; naming conventions; body language; dress; gift giving etiquette; dinning etiquette; table manners.

Some DOs in Russia DO shake hands when you are first introduced to someone. DO maintain direct eye contact. DO kiss three times (female friends). DO pat each other on the bag and hug (close make friends). DO use first name, second name and last name in formal situation. DO smile when you are pleased to meet someone. DO dress modestly. DO observe gift giving Etiquette.

Some DON’Ts in Russia DON’T use “affectionate” names with unknown people. DON'T smile unless you mean it. In Russia, smiling a lot can be seen as insincere. DON'T display affection in public. DON'T show the bottoms of your feet. It's impolite. DON'T stand around with your hands in your pockets. DON'T point with your finger. Instead point with your entire hand. DON'T arrive no more than 15 minutes later than you are invited. DON'T give a baby gift until after the baby is born. DON'T begin eating until the host invites you to start.

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Are we different or alike?

We are alike and we have much in common in social etiquette We are alike and we have much in common in social etiquette. But English people are more reserved in manners, speech and dress, more disciplined, punctual, tolerant and polite. The Russians are more uninhibited despite the same norms and sometimes considered to be rather rude.

Conclusion Having studied the rules of behavior, speech etiquette, accepted in Britain and Russia, their habits, we can be aware of the norms of behaviour, follow the rules of countries, show the respect to the cultures and perfect the international relationships.