IRELAND | Socializing | Culture
Mentality & Communication
Irish people dislike loud and insistent boasting about how good you are at something, or how good your product is. This behaviour is seen as rude and a ‘hard' sell. It is much better to assert yourself or your point firmly and gracefully. For example, Jacques may have said his placement is going very well, he is learning a great deal, however, he feels that he is capable of more and should a more challenging opportunity arise, he would gladly help out. "Pulling rank" is highly offensive and not accepted in Irish society. It consists of boasting or acting in a superior way.
"Small talk" is a typically Irish way of communicating. Talking to a stranger in the bus, in a shop, or while queuing in the bank is a normal everyday occurrence. Great emphasis is placed on being able to communicate with people. A favourite topic of small talk is the weather. Another topic is discussing television programmes. "Slagging" is a mild form of teasing, which is not meant to be offensive, and where the person "slagged" will usually respond in the same way. This takes practice and is not recommended for beginners. Understatements are often used to describe things. For example "not bad" is used to describe something that is very good - "your English is not bad" is meant as a compliment.
The Irish sense of humour often consists of being able to tell a funny story and to take a joke. Taking a joke means that, in the right context, if someone says something that you think is mildly critical of you or your country of origin, you should not take it too seriously. Irish people will be the first to be critical of themselves and their country, the phrase "It could only happen in Ireland" frequently used.
Going out to Eat or Drink
A round is where you take turns to buy a drink for the rest of the group and yourself. When it is your turn, it is "your round". If you wish to leave before you have bought a round, ensure that you buy a drink for your friends before you leave the pub. It is a major faux pas not to participate in a round.
Local Customs
Ireland 's major festival occurs on St. Patrick's Day, March 17th, when every city town and village organises parades and special events. There is always a carnival atmosphere and the "craic is mighty".
Typical Local Recipe
