Greece Business Etiquette

Greece Business Etiquette

Introduction

Gift Giving

Greece is a country in Europe located south of Bulgaria. It houses about 11 million people and is the birthplasce of democracy, the Olympic Games, political science, major scientific and mathematical principles, and many other things .

Making the Deal

Works Cited

• When invited to dinner at a Greek home, bring something small.
• A floral arrangement may be sent in advance of the actual event.
• Gifts need not be expensive.

. Forming a personal relationship is critical to developing a successful business relationship.

. Greeks respect age and position.

. Demonstrate how your product or service enhances your colleague's reputation.

. Do not lose your temper or appear irritated during business discussions.

. Greeks are skilled negotiators. They enjoy haggling.

. Contracts are often quite simple since the personal relationship dictates that accommodations will be made on either side should the need arise.

By: Maya Coleman

• http://travel.state.gov/travel/cis_pa_tw/cis/cis_1127.html
• http://www.executiveplanet.com/index.php?title=Greece
• http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/greece-country-profile.html
• http://www.etiquettescholar.com/dining_etiquette/table-etiquette/europe-m_table_manners/greek.html
• http://www.ediplomat.com/np/cultural_etiquette/ce_gr.htm

Business Greetings

Conversation

Conversations are often held at a high volume – which may or may not indicate anger. The Greeks will often make gestures by inclining their heads such as tilting their heads upwards to indicate “no”. The open hand facing outward – the hand signal that is often used for “stop” in the US - is also considered offensive and should also be avoided.

When meeting someone for the first time, the Greeks shake hands firmly, smile, and maintain direct eye contact.

Table manners/Restaurant Etiquette

Business Dress

Condiment Etiquette

• If there is gravy or sauce, you can generally use your bread to soak some of it up.

Men should wear dark coloured, conservative business suits, and women should wear either business suits or tasteful dresses, preferably in dark or subtle colours.

American and/or European Style of dining

• Do not begin eating until your host invites you to.
• If you place your napkin up on the table or on the plate, most Greeks will also take this to mean that you are finished.
• When not holding utensils, your hands are expected to be visible above the table.

Gender

The gender barriers in greece are very silm. the is a law, Article 119 of the Treaty of Rome; Greek Constitution 1975; Law 1414/84, that is against sexism in Greece.

Public Behavior

Extra Facts

There is physical contact between men and women. In fact, there is often close contact among people of the same gender as well. Greeks will often reach out and touch someone when speaking to them. When meeting, a kiss on both cheeks is common.

Business Introductions/ How to Address

Business people

• family is the basis of the social structure
• "Yes" is signified by a slight downward nod of the head; “no" is a slight upward nod of the head.
• Punctuality is not particularly important in Greece, but foreigners are expected to be on time for business meetings, even though his/her Greek counterpart may be late.
• Avoid telephoning unless it is impossible to meet.

In Greece, when adressing a potential business partner,

you must always address them as Mr. or Mrs . and their

last name .

Business Cards

Business cards are exchanged without formal ritual,

Although one side of your business card should be translated into Greek. You should present your card so the Greek side faces the recipient.

photo credit Nasa / Goddard Space Flight Center / Reto Stöckli