Would you say it’s normal in the UK to not smile at customer service or strangers when asking them questions? I am just curious what is the culturally right thing to do here.
Is it typical in the UK for people not to smile when interacting with customer service or strangers while asking questions? I’m just trying to understand the cultural norms here.
In the UK, social interactions can vary widely depending on the region and context. Generally, it’s true that British people may not smile as readily at strangers or during customer service interactions compared to some other cultures. It’s often more about maintaining a certain level of formality and politeness. When asking questions, a friendly tone and polite language are usually sufficient.
That said, many people do appreciate a smile or a friendly demeanor, so it can be a nice touch, especially in customer service settings. Ultimately, being respectful and polite is key, and a friendly smile can certainly help foster a positive interaction!