IRELAND | Internship: At work | Cultural standards

Friendlyness / welcome culture

Ireland has turned from a country of emigration to a country of immigration within only few decades. This might be a reason for a very strong welcome culture inherent in the Irish people. Being kind to strangers is what you might have hoped for when you or your relatives emigrated and arrived abroad among strangers. 

People will stand in the famous queue without jumping ahead and they will normally welcome you as a new trainee with respect and kindness – expecting the same from your side.

Small talk

You don´t need an occasion or a specific topic in order to start a small talk. People passing by in the street might start a small talk with you. It is a sign of attention to the other, of sharing and creating a link to the other. So, strangers become less “strange” after a small chat – which after all, is usually a kind neutral exchange and will never be used to criticize the other person. Topics are neutral just like the famous small talk about the weather. Actually, weather in Ireland is changing all the time and rarely predictable, so it is indeed not as boring as it sounds. But you can also mention anything else that calls your attention like the decoration in the streets for some public festivity. You can profit from this openness of the Irish to find out more about just what draws your attention: What do these signs here mean? …  You normally will always get a smile and a kind answer.

Only be rather careful with political topics like the British – Irish conflict, religious issues and any issues of Northern Ireland concerning a possible re-unification.

Flexibility with dates and plans

Although the Irish have a reputation for being relaxed, punctuality in the workplace is considered very important and to be late creates a negative impression. Nevertheless, don´t be surprised if colleagues are relatively flexible regarding joint dates and plans. Changes can happen on short notice. Dates and plans are considered as important, but life might interfere and people don´t stick too much on obligations.

Humour

Humour in Ireland is about understatement and focused on yourself rather than making fun of others at their expense.

Celtic Culture

Celtic culture and language are a prime factor in forming the identity of the Irish people and distancing themselves from the British colonialists. In order to revive their own language and culture, many efforts were made. Children go to Gaelic schools. There is a Gaelic TV broadcast and appreciation of Celtic art and people speaking Gaelic is very high. Almost all signs and announcements, especially in the Western Ireland, are bilingual. And don´t be surprised: even Irish English might sound different from what you expected.