The English Practice

In Poland, a common way to kickstart a meeting is to shake hands with everybody there and then complain about something. In Britain, this may seem inappropriately formal and negative. We prefer to begin by saying something is lovely and making a little wave and nod at everybody in the room.

If you want to feel confident that you are doing the right thing on your business trip to the UK, get in touch. I can teach you how to interact with your coworkers so they won’t hate you and how to behave with waiters, bus drivers, and all the other people you may meet. I can explain all the parts of British business etiquette that make absolutely no sense so that you can use them too and start to judge other Poles who don’t get them.

Business travel to the UK is often seen as part of a glamorous and sophisticated lifestyle, synonymous with professional accomplishment. With my support, it can be. I alone can make your trip a success.

When I first moved to Poland, I often thought people were angry with me.

I sent emails like this:

‘Dear Jan,
I hope you are well. Would it be possible to have our class next Thursday a bit earlier, for example at 15:00?
Have a great afternoon.
Best
Alex’

And got replies like this:

‘Alex, OK. Jan’

It wasn’t until after I had lived in Warsaw for a long time that I realised that this is just how Polish professionals communicate. My clients weren’t passive-aggressive. But not all foreigners know that. If that reply looks OK to you, you may be offending clients, coworkers, and prospects without even knowing it.

The English language savoir vivre is complicated, and it’s easy to make mistakes. So I have prepared a short course for Poles on how to write professional emails. Be confident that you are polite, friendly, and respectful when you communicate with foreigners.

If you think I could help you send better, more professional emails, get in touch now.

Would a better CV or LinkedIn page help you with your professional development? I have rewritten these for Polish professionals at many different stages of their careers, from specialists to the C-suite. We have always been happy with the results. Let me help you show prospects and recruiters the best possible version of yourself. Make sure that you don’t miss out on any exciting opportunities. If you know anyone you think would benefit from this, I would really appreciate it if you would put them in touch.

Do you have the language you need for great marketing?

Some of my favourite things Poles have said to me.

Having lived in Poland for five years, here are some important differences between how to behave at dinner parties here and in the UK that I learned mostly through awkward moments.

In the UK, Poland is usually thought of as Eastern Europe. But many Poles find this offensive. After five years of living here, here are my thoughts.

In Poland, I had to learn a completely different savoir-vivre on the road. Do you agree with my observations?

When making jokes, it is really important to understand what will make you look good to clients, colleagues and prospects and what is considered weird and offensive.

Some of the most popular phrases from my classes and a great way to show your mastery of English.

What is your favourite English expression to use at work?

Why English speakers send such long, indirect messages and why you should too.