Business Culture in Belgium

Given its relatively modest size (both in terms of population and geography), Belgium is incredibly successful. It is one of the most successful exporting nations in the world resulting in an extremely positive balance of payments position. Belgium’s success could be said to be the result of its geographic position at the heart of Europe, a highly educated, diligent workforce and the good fortune to be the epi-centre of the European Union. Whatever the reasons, Belgium is a country with a lot to offer any business looking to expand globally.

If you are thinking of doing business in Belgium it would be a very good idea to do some in-depth research on the country in advance for, although Belgium is economically strong, it is very much a country divided along regional lines. There is much talk of the strong divisions which are felt between the Flemish speakers of the north and their southern Wallonia compatriots in the south. These divisions run deep and present existential questions about the continued viability of the country. It is wise to have some understanding of these issues before approaching would-be contacts in-country.

If you are thinking of doing business in Belgium you need to know how these regional divisions influence Belgian business culture. In fact, is there such a thing as a ‘Belgian’ business culture or are there in effect two distinct and separate business cultures? Is there a consistent approach to communication across the country, and if not, what impacts do any differences have on meetings and negotiating? Belgium is complex – can the world-famous Belgian approach to compromise be of assistance? Knowledge and understanding are key so do some research up-front.

This country profile provides an overview of some of the key aspects of Belgian business culture in a concise, easy to follow-format. The document includes information on:

• Background to business
• Business Structures
• Management style
• Teamwork
• Communication
• Women in business
• Entertaining
• Top tips

Author

This country-specific business culture profile was written by Keith Warburton who is the founder of the cultural awareness training consultancy Global Business Culture.  Global Business culture is a leading training provider in the fields of cross-cultural communication and global virtual team working.  We provide training to global corporations in live classroom-based formats, through webinars and also through our cultural awareness digital learning hub, Global Business Compass.

This World Business Culture profile is designed as an introduction to business culture in Australia only and a more detailed understanding needs a more in-depth exploration which we can provide through our training and consultancy services.

Author

This country-specific business culture profile was written by Keith Warburton who is the founder of the cultural awareness training consultancy Global Business Culture. 

Global Business culture is a leading training provider in the fields of cross-cultural communication and global virtual team working.  We provide training to global corporations in live classroom-based formats, through webinars and also through our cultural awareness digital learning hub, Global Business Compass.

This World Business Culture profile is designed as an introduction to business culture in Belgium only and a more detailed understanding needs a more in-depth exploration which we can provide through our training and consultancy services.