Before this week, my knowledge of Ireland’s relationship with the UK was very limited. However, through our city tours just the past two days, I’ve learned that there is a very thin line to walk when talking about the British. In many cases, the British are not looked upon so fondly (to put it very generally) given the violence and rebellions of Ireland’s history. However, in viewing a lot of the architecture and buildings whose styles are indicative of periods of British rule, our guide had frequently mentioned the beauty in these buildings, and how more modern ones could even be as far to say “ugly” in comparison. I was surprised at how quickly the conversation would flip between disdain and admiration for the crown. Even seeing posters and hearing opinions about the recent coronation was fascinating. Having context and knowledge of the country’s history is extremely important to making connections with locals, because it is so easy to accidentally express support towards something that the general public strongly disagrees with, whether you mean to or not. Regardless of what you agree or disagree with politically, it is so valuable to be able to frame your words in a way that is respectful to the local culture and history.

Something else that is extremely relevant to business is knowing the connections between others around you. It can be so easy to only think about what people think about you, or how you are perceived and presenting yourself. Yesterday, we had learned that a huge component of business (not unlike the US) is not what you know, but who you know. A lot of people obtain jobs based on “a friend of a friend of a friend” as it was said to us, and that it is not common at all to apply and interview for a job where you have no prior connection. This in mind, when consulting with a business or potential partners, it is best to be extremely cautious about who you mention or talk about, because you never know whom the person you’re speaking to is close friends with. Of course, this would seem like good practice in general, but knowing that connections are far more common than cold calling (if cold calling even happens at all), may save you some grief. Considering this in making connections for yourself, there is so much value in meeting with and connecting with a person first before making any business decisions. While we are here for a short time, this shouldn’t mean we rush into all things business, and should instead take the time to get to know our partners to some extent.