DO’S

1. Do visit outside Dublin

Ireland has so much to offer (McKeown, 2016). See more of the country than just
Dublin. It's such shame the amount of people who visit and never leave Dublin. It's
a good idea to use Dublin as a base but it’s a must to get out of the city. Along with
the celebrated sights, do visit some underrated sights that gives the actual cultural
glimpse of the society – the Cliffs of Moher and the Ring of Kerry are few of the
must visit in Ireland (Simply Nomads, n.d).

2. Do bring an outfit for every type of weather

The weather in Ireland is unpredictable; it can shift very fast, so it is advised to
have an umbrella even when the forecast is good. An Irish summer can bring
sunshine, rain and wind all in just a short span of time. McCarthy (2019) advised to
dress appropriately and have a backpack with options – a rain jacket is a good idea
even if the sun is shining. It is recommended to pack light layers and waterproof
shoes, unless you’re planning on spending the entire time indoors.

3. Do socialize
McKeown (2016) stated that people in Ireland will be happy if you'll start a
conversation with them. Don't be afraid that you'll annoy anyone. You will learn a
lot and have great experiences from just starting conversation with strangers.
Simply Nomads (n.d) recommends in engaging with a local in a city, to buy a
‘round’ in the pub. In Ireland, there is a custom to buy drinks in a ‘round’. To show
a warm friendly gesture, it is always good to buy a ‘round’. It is good option to
indulge in the conversation with the local.
4. Do know the meeting culture
It is customary and important to shake hands with everyone present, both at the
beginning and at the end of the meeting. Take your time during a meeting, don't
rush. You are always safe with topic about sports, the weather, and hobbies. Be
mindful and never bring up religion or politics yourself, you can join in the
conversation if your Irish counterparts do. All aspects of the deal often come to the
table during a meeting. Maintain eye contact because it inspires confidence. If you
avoid eye contact, you will be perceived as untrustworthy (Zachwieja, 2017).

5. Build a good relationship

An Irishman would like to know exactly who he is doing business with.
Relationships hold a vital role in Ireland, so networking and establishing a good
rapport is key (Zachwieja, 2017). Developing a personal 'friendly' relationship is
important with an Irish business partner. In order to build a sustainable business
relationship, one should make an effort to visit the business partner regularly. The
pub can be a perfect location to get to know each other better. 
 DON'T

1. Don’t take everything seriously

There are no formalities in Ireland and if you start talking with the locals, you will
almost certainly be teased, but it’s all in good fun. Give back as much as you get
and you’ll have a friend for the evening at least. Expect a healthy suspicion of
authority and a total lack of ceremony, just enjoy and embrace it (McCarthy, 2019).

2. Don’ be offended by the swearing

In general, Irish people swear a lot (McCarthy, 2019). Think of it more as their
habit rather than any sign of aggression. It makes an impact, adds a bit of flavor
and taste to the English language and for them it feels good. Despite those
impeccable manners, the Irish just love to cuss (Wolters World, 2019). Keep in
mind that they're not swearing at you, they're just swearing.

3. Don't be impolite
According to Commisceo Global Consulting Ltd. (2020), the Irish are really polite
folks. They might not have the same embarrassed type of politeness that the
English have. And if you’re impolite in Ireland, expect that the Irish will notice. The
Irish gives importance in politeness and helpfulness a lot, even in small everyday
situations like bumping into each other. Most of them will excuse themselves even
if you bumped into them.

4. Don't be too formal

Irish entrepreneurs are often less formal than their European counterparts.
Company structures in Ireland are in principle hierarchical, but the separation
between managers and their subordinates is not always strict (Netherlands
Enterprise Agency, n.d). Interactions in the workplace are generally quite
personable and relaxed. On the other hand, compliance and formality towards
authority are very common (IES, 2020).
5. Don’t refer to the Republic of Ireland as part of the United Kingdom, or Northern
Ireland as part of the Republic of Ireland.
These are two completely different political entities and this is a sensitive subject
(Zachwieja, 2017). Avoid making the mistake of lumping them together. To confuse
Ireland and Northern Ireland is a sure way to start off on the wrong foot. In fact, it
is advisable not to talk about politics in general especially if one is not
knowledgeable about their history (Expat Arrivals, n.d).
 CITATIONS

Commisceo Global Consulting Ltd. (2020, January 1) Ireland - Language, Culture,

Customs and Etiquette. Retrieved from https://commisceo-
global.com/resources/country-guides/ireland-guide
Expat Arrivals. (n.d.). Doing Business In Ireland. Retrieved from
https://www.expatarrivals.com/europe/ireland/doing-business-ireland
IES (2020). The Cultural Atlas. Retrieved from: https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au.
McCarthy, A. M. (2019, July 10). Dos and don'ts in Ireland. Lonely Planet. Retrieved
from https://www.lonelyplanet.com/amp/ireland/dublin/travel-tips-and-
articles/irish-etiquette/40625c8c-8a11-5710-a052-1479d27681ae
McKeown, G. (2016, November 2). Grainne McKeown's answer to What are the dos
and dont when visiting Ireland. https://www.quora.com/What-are-the-dos-
and-dont-when-visiting-Ireland
Netherlands Enterprise Agency. (n.d). Do's-and-don'ts in Ireland. Retrieved from
https://www.rvo.nl/onderwerpen/internationaalondernemen/landenoverzicht/
ierland/dos-and-donts-ierland
Simply Nomads. (n.d). Dos and Don’ts of Traveling in Ireland. Retrieved from
simplynomads.com/dos-and-donts-of-traveling-in-ireland
Wolters World. (2019, March 11). Don’ts of Ireland: What Not to Do On Your
Ireland Vacation. Retrieved from https://woltersworld.com/donts-of-ireland-
what-not-to-do-on-your-ireland-vacation/
Zachwieja, A. S. (2017, October 30). A Quick Guide To Business Etiquette In
Ireland. Globig. Retrieved from https://globig.co/blog/a-quick-guide-to-
business-etiquette-in-ireland/