Generally speaking, there is a good work-life balance in the UK. For certain jobs, employees are entitled to a 6-week holiday with holiday pay. The government has welfare policies to ensure that citizens are protected in the COVID-19 pandemic. The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme has been implemented where employees can claim wages of furlough days. Employees have less pressure of being sacked due to the virus outbreak. However, the working pressure depends on the occupation, and overtime hours might be necessary.
Although this is not necessarily present in every office, British humour is often used in daily communication. Irony, sarcasm and self-deprecation are particularly common in dialogues. This "Laughing-at-Everyday-Life Attitude" allows British employees to not take things too seriously at times, as they can laugh at their own flaws with some dark humour to lessen the tensions and unpleasantries among colleagues.
There is a hierarchical structure in workplace, and there are inevitably red tapes and bureaucratic restraints. On the other hand, British employers do prefer a pragmatic approach so the workplace styles and manners could be pretty open and casual. In addition, even when seniors maintain a friendly relationship with everyone, it does not mean their authority is to be challenged. The decision-making power still rests on the hands of executives. Although the working atmosphere is relatively open, the class distinctions still exist but simply well-disguised.
The Do's
Use the word "please" when you ask for assistance!
The Do's
Be polite and humble to colleagues.
The Do's
Always queue and wait for your turn.
The Do's
Be punctual at work!
The Don'ts
Don't ask questions related to your colleague's age, weight and wealth.
The Don'ts
Don't be too critical to minimize confrontation.
The Don'ts
Don't take the jokes too personal as sarcasm could be quite common.Â
The Don'ts
Don't display too much emotions as public outbursts are seen as abnormal.
Check out the top rated British workplace comedy shows like "The Office" to get more insights into the culture!