In the heart of Western Europe lies Belgium, a country known for its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant business landscape. When engaging in business activities in Belgium, understanding and respecting local customs and etiquette is crucial for building successful relationships.

Punctuality

Hierarchy

Greetings

Business cards

Business attire

Gift-giving

Business meetings etiquette

Dining etiquette

Things to know about doing business in Belgium

Finding success in Belgian business culture

Travel well-informed with Travisa

Punctuality

Punctuality is a national value, and being on time for meetings and appointments is a sign of professionalism. Arriving a few minutes early is considered courteous, while being late may be perceived as disrespectful. Meetings tend to start and end on schedule, so it's advisable to plan your schedule accordingly and avoid keeping others waiting.

Hierarchy

Belgium has a well-defined hierarchical structure in business settings. Titles and positions are highly respected, and it's common to address colleagues and business partners using their appropriate titles and surnames. Never address someone by their first name until they've given permission to do so.

However, as the business culture here centers around compromise and cooperation, expect that decisions will usually be made based on general consensus and discussion.

Greetings

When meeting someone for the first time, keep things formal to start with a handshake and a smile. Depending on which region of Belgium you're in, Dutch (Flemish) or French may be the most widely-spoken language. Adjust your greeting accordingly and say either 'Bonjour' (French) or 'Goedendag' (Dutch) is appropriate.

English is widely spoken in business contexts, but learning a few basic phrases in French or Dutch can be a sign of respect and goodwill.

• Hello – Hallo (Dutch); Bonjour (French)
• Goodbye – Tot ziens (Dutch); au revoir (French)
• How are you? – Hoe gaat het met u? (Dutch); Comment ça va? (French)
• My name is... – Mijn naam es... (Dutch); Je m’appelle... (French)
• Nice to meet you – Aangenaam (Dutch); Enchanté (French)
• Thank you – Dank je (Dutch); Merci (French)
• Please – Alstublieft (Dutch); S'il vous plaît (French)

Business cards

It's common to exchange business cards when meeting someone new for the first time, but there is no formal process or ritual attention to this exchange.

Depending on where you are in Belgium, providing a French or Dutch translation on one side of your business card could be appropriate.

Business attire

Belgian business attire leans towards formal and sophisticated styles. As a good rule of thumb, it's always better to be overdressed than underdressed. Both men and women can wear business suits, and women can also opt for trousers and a nice blouse or a dress. Formal jackets are common and should be kept on during business meetings. There is no strict color code, but neutral colors and understated accessories are preferred.

Gift-giving

Gift-giving while conducting business is not widely practiced in Belgium, but you may want to present a small, modest gift to mark special occasions or the finalizing of business deals. If you're presented with a gift, open it right away. Price-wise, stick to affordable but thoughtful, high-quality options. Avoid items with logos, especially if they come from your own company.

You may also want to bring a gift if you are invited to a Belgian business colleague's home. In this case, you should bring a small gesture, like a box of chocolate or flowers.

Business meetings etiquette

Due to the strong focus on collaboration, problem-solving, and compromise, Belgian business meetings may run long so that everyone present can share their thoughts and reach a consensus. Here's what you can expect when setting up and attending a business meeting in Belgium.

Scheduling and arrival

• Meetings should be scheduled at least a few days in advance.
• Belgians generally like to set the desired time and will give you a range of options (usually mid-morning and mid-afternoon).
• Arrive on time and prepared with the appropriate materials and in proper business attire.

Greetings and seating

• Greet everyone with proper titles before the meeting begins.
• Exchange business cards if necessary.
• Follow your hosts' lead regarding where to sit.
• Meetings generally start with a few minutes of small talk to get to know each other.

Discussion and negotiation

• Be attentive and polite, taking notes and showing that you're engaged.
• Belgians value subtlety and tactfulness in communication. Avoid being overly direct or confrontational, as this can be perceived as aggressive. Instead, present your points thoughtfully and listen actively to others' perspectives, particularly during critical discussions.
• Meetings and business negotiations may run long, as Belgians value collaboration and consensus-building. Be patient and listen to everyone as they give their input and opinion during discussions.

Conclusion and follow-up

• End meetings by thanking everyone for their time and input.
• Send a follow-up email thanking them again and outlining anything important from the meeting, such as action items and deadlines.

Dining etiquette

Lunchtime is the most common and popular time for business meals in Belgium, seen as an occasion to both talk shop and better get to know your Belgian business associates. When dining with Belgian counterparts, remember these etiquette pointers:

• Wait until the host offers a toast before taking a sip of your drink.
• Keep your hands visible on the table, but not your elbows.
• Wait for the host to begin the meal before you start eating.
• Try to finish everything on your plate, as leaving food behind may be interpreted as wastefulness.

Belgians value work-life balance and try to keep their private life and work life separate, so business dinners are rarer. If you are invited out for dinner with your Belgian business colleagues, it should be viewed as more of a social occasion. Keep the business talk to a minimum, and instead stick to small talk and general conversation topics, like hobbies, family, and uncontroversial current events.

Things to know about doing business in Belgium

• Unscheduled meetings: Never show up unannounced or unexpectedly for a meeting; it won't be appreciated and can reflect badly on you.
• Summer vacation: As with many other European countries, July and August are usually when most Belgians go on vacation. Be aware that many people will be out-of-office for a few weeks during this time and, due to work-life balance, likely won't be checking in during their vacations. Avoid scheduling meetings or big projects during these months.
• Don't get too personal: Because Belgians keep their private lives private, avoid asking too-personal questions when first getting to know your Belgian counterpart. Follow their lead and only ask such questions when they feel comfortable enough to ask them of you.
• Give them space: Avoid too much direct, prolonged eye contact or being too physically close, as Belgians value personal space.

Finding success in Belgian business culture

Mastering business etiquette in Belgium is a valuable skill that can greatly enhance your professional relationships and opportunities. You'll not only build stronger connections but also show your commitment to understanding and appreciating Belgian culture.

Travel well-informed with Travisa

An experienced visa specialist can help you navigate the complexities of border crossing requirements. Contact Travisa for a quote today.