Etiquette in Belgium

Belgium is a European nation of 11 million people on the borders of France, Germany, and The Netherlands.

The official languages of Belgium are Dutch, French, and German.

Belgium is a federal parliamentary constitutional monarchy led by a King and Prime Minister.

Belgium has three officially recognized religions: Christianity (Catholic, Protestantism, Orthodoxy and Anglicanism), Islam and Judaism, however Roman Catholicism strongly influences society and politics.

Belgium is one of the founding members of the European Union and uses the Euro as official currency.

General Etiquette

Personal subjects and religion are conversation topics best avoided when talking with someone in Belgium. The typical U.S. icebreaker of “What do you do?” is not appropriate.

Consider it a great compliment if invited to someone’s home. As a guest, do not help yourself to food until it is offered and be sure to complement the food, as it is a great source of pride for Belgians. Belgians are also known for frugaltiy, so make every effort to finish any food or drink you are given.

Upon entering and leaving a room, be sure to shake hands with everyone.

If you are meeting with a Flemish speaker, choose to use English instead of French, unless you are fluent in Flemish.

Our large, non-profit educational group for marketing executives looked for someone knowledgeable on the topic of business etiquette and one name kept rising to the top, Cynthia Lett. Her talk was amazing. Since we were limited by time, she focused on the critical aspects of business interactions. Cynthia is a tremendous resource for any company or organization looking for a protocol course.

Andrew Rose

Director of Marketing and Business Development Naden/Lean, LLC

I hired Cynthia to become an etiquette consultant. She was knowledgeable on every subject and I learned quite a but about the business from her. Many years later she continues to be a resource to me.

Lisa M. Grotts

The AML Group, San Francisco, CA

I can truly say without a doubt, Cynthia Lett consistently delivers quality and professionalism as an international expert in etiquette and protocol. I highly recommend The Lett Group to anyone wanting to get the right information from the very best!

Irene Zucker

President VerbaCom® Executive Development

Cynthia Lett was the top-rated speaker at several international Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) events. She possesses vast knowledge and practical experience in international protocol and etiquette. As a speaker, Cynthia is wonderful at engaging an audience with real examples and practical tools for helping them deal with intercultural protocol and etiquette situations. I would highly recommend her for educational events for any group.

Edward Potter

Association Director Association Management Group, McLean, VA

Cynthia is one of the top business etiquette professionals in the DC area. I recommend Cynthia Lett for your business etiquette needs.

Marva Goldsmith

President & Chief Image Officer

Cynthia is the consummate etiquette and protocol professional. She founded ISPEP to develop and enhance the standards of our profession because she cares so deeply about what we do and the quality of service clients receive.

Hilka Klinkenberg

Founder/President