The Irish culture is a mixture of three historic "C" words: Celtic, Catholic and colonized, creating an amalgam of struggling contradictions. But due to high education levels, the natural use of English and the EU, Ireland now has the fastest growing economy in Europe and is one of the world's high tech centers. But the complexities of the Irish culture need to be mastered to enjoy success in Eire today.

Merry Wars and Sad Love Songs

Learn More And Another Thing... Ireland comparatively is still a rather inexpensive place to set-up shop in the European market. Gaelic is a Celtic language, now only spoken on a daily basis by about one-third of the country. Irish English is more similar to British English than it is to American English. Speaking Silently Touching one's nose indicates, "keep this a secret" or "between us." The "V for victory" sign must be done with palm facing outward. It is a vulgar gesture of defiance if the palm faces inward.

Consider these dualities of the Irish soul: A strong need for others while remaining fiercely independent. Women and men treat each other like equals, but both sexes comment about the other's performance of traditional roles. Time is secondary to relationships; it's common to arrive late to a dinner party or meeting. Yet the Irish are often compliant to authority and are always on time when it comes to work. There is a strong belief that only God knows what the future will hold, yet the Irish will fight against all odds.

The Art of Conversation

The Irish have a well-deserved reputation for conversation. They don't just say what needs to be said; they appreciate the average person's ability to say something witty, beautiful or philosophical.

Greetings and Introductions

The Irish are exceedingly polite and warm. Relax and enjoy the remarkable fun the Irish have with life's everyday moments. Get used to lots of "slagging" and "craic" -- having fun with the language by making jokes -- often at someone else's expense. If you're the "slaggee" you are expected to be a good sport and put up with it, join in the fun and slag back. The victor in a slag, if there is one, usually buys the next round.

Being Correct

If someone is referred to as "plain," this is an honor. It means you are the salt of the earth. When being introduced, shake hands and maintain eye contact. It is OK to talk about the weather (the ubiquitous soft rain and mist are not viewed negatively). Dicey topics include politics, troubles with the UK, the English, the issue of Protestants and Catholics, and Americans and the Irish (there can be strong feelings about Irish-Americans and their relatively free ride).

Drinking in Ireland

Refusing a drink can be tough. You'll need a very good reason for not drinking with others. Getting drunk, however, is not admired.

Whiskey with an "e" means Irish whiskey; without an "e," it refers to Scotch whisky. In a pub, you need to name your brand. There usually will be a huge selection of available brands. Whiskey is usually drunk neat or with water, never over ice.

Guinness stout is the national drink. It is usually served cool, as opposed to most other beers, which are served at room temperature. If you want a chilled, nonstout beer, ask for lager. Beer usually comes in pints or half-pints and a "pint of plain" is a pint of Guinness.

Working Well and Wisely

When invited, it's important to go to the pub after work with colleagues to unwind. When first arriving in the office, say good morning to each individual you know, but there is no need to shake hands. When handing out business cards, present your card to the secretary at first and to the individual you are meeting with after the meeting.

Thank You Very Much

In general, gift giving is not expected for business purposes. However, little gifts are expected for social events, like a bottle of wine, a box of chocolates or pastries or a simple arrangement of flowers. Gifts are usually opened in front of the giver.