After
visiting the beautiful Djerba , it’s time to discover something about the land
of romance : Italy.
But
not only romance runs rampant in Italy, also the business life runs smoothly! And
with my diploma office management in my pocket, I am very curious about the
business life and business etiquette in this beautiful country.
To learn more about this subject I have a meeting with Peter, manager of a
Belgian company based in Italy.
When
I saw him, he shook my hand firmly and looked me in the eyes. He told me when I’m
introduced during a business meeting, I have to shake hands with men, women and
children. But not all meetings are formal , friends may greet each other with a
kiss on both cheeks. The same as we do with friends.
As
each country , also Italy has his own rules. In a first business contact
Italians find a personal introduction very important.
The
Italian does not excel in language skills, although young people are learning
more and more English. The older generation Italians had French as a foreign
language at school, so they manage these language better than English.
Because Peter has lived a long time in Belgium, he talks still fluently Dutch. But my knowledge of French and English will certainly be useful during a business meeting in Italy.
Because Peter has lived a long time in Belgium, he talks still fluently Dutch. But my knowledge of French and English will certainly be useful during a business meeting in Italy.
After
our introduction Peter started talking about Italy. That surprised me but he
told me this is normal. During a business meeting it is important to have
patience and not move too fast to business. There are many topics you can talk
about : family, sports, tourism and gastronomy. Also a compliment about his
country is very much appreciated by the Italian.
Even
though it was very hot that day, Peter was dressed in a costume. I asked him
about this he told me that appearance plays a big role in the Italian culture.
Wearing casual clothes such as a combination of blue jeans, a jacket with net
shirt and tie is not desirable during business meetings. The Italians like
clothes of good quality.
To
make a good impression on your business partner can offer a business gift. But
if a gift is offered, it must have a certain look. An original gift in a nice
packaging speaks more.
It’s
also a custom to take your business partner to a restaurant. At lunch and
dinner they drink usually wine, also before the meal they drink an appetizer.
After
this "business meeting" I said goodbye to Peter. I do not know many
Italian but goodbye in Italian I do know: arrivederci and I see you in Paris!
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