Working with executives  I would often hear questions like, “What does ‘6-ish’ mean?” The non-English speaking managers would say,’ This wasn’t something I learned at English language school. But when I arrange to meet my customers they can’t simply commit to an exact time.’ Customers meeting British suppliers for a drink in the pub wonder why they can’t simply commit to an exact time., instead of saying 6ish.

Our perceptions of time are deeply rooted in culture, shaping everything from punctuality to flexibility.

Consider how the mind reacts like a Ferrari revving up at the unfamiliar. When faced with different cultural attitudes toward time, our negativity bias may kick in, prompting us to question or protect our expectations:

🚗   “They aren’t precise with time—does this mean they won’t be precise in   business?”

🚗   “Are they struggling with commitment?

 🚗   “They seem so vague—will this translate to vagueness in paying invoices?”

🚗    “Can I trust them with my order? Will they follow instructions or simply adhere to their timeline?”

Across cultures, the concept of time and punctuality varies widely:

Time as a Resource vs. Relationship-Oriented Time: In cultures where time is seen as a resource, such as Germany or Switzerland, punctuality is highly valued; arriving late may be seen as unprofessional or disrespectful. In contrast, relationship-oriented cultures—common in parts of Asia or Africa—value the flow of conversation and connection over strict adherence to the clock, making flexibility natural.

🤙 By understanding these cultural perspectives, we can become more adaptable in our interactions, recognizing that time isn’t always about the minute on the clock but often about the meaning and context it carries.