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Greece |
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- Most Greeks on the street don’t speak English.
- Shake hands with everyone individually in a group before departing.
- Kissing is a common greeting once there is a familiar relationship.
- Eye contact during introductions is important; as long as the individual
is addressing you, maintain eye contact.
- The US “OK” sign with the thumb and forefinger may be considered
obscene.
- Nodding the head upward means no, (it looks similar to the US nod
for yes), and it is often accompanied with a slight bearing of the
teeth and a small clicking sound with the tongue.
- Never raise an open palm at face level, this is an insult.
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Typical business attire for men is a suit and a tie.
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Acceptable women’s clothing includes a suit, a blouse,
and a skirt below the knee. Sleeveless is considered inappropriate.
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Vibrant colors such as fuschia or lime green are
not recommended. More subdued colors are appropriate for shirts,
ties, and shoes.
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Family and Friends are everything; the group you’re
associated with requires absolute loyalty.
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The building of trust and personal relationships
in business is important before any real tasks will be accomplished.
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Keereeoss (Mr.) and Keereeah (Mrs.) plus the family
name are a must when introduced to anyone.
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You will typically be introduced to older people
and men first, women second. Follow this protocol when introducing
yourself.
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Social events usually start at least an hour late
and have no set ending time.
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Many Greeks in business speak English.
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It is typically acceptable to come to meetings one
half-hour late, although beginners in Greece should arrive on time
but be prepared to wait.
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Plan your meetings as carefully and well in advance
as you can, but expect changes.
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Meetings are usually vibrant and everyone is expected
to participate.
- Eating in a Greek restaurant is pretty informal and meant to be
relaxing and enjoyable.
- 90% of the people in restaurants speak English.
- The most common toast is kalymata, “to your health”.
- Greeks do not switch knives and forks as Americans do. The knife
remains in the right hand, and the fork remains in the left.
- Hands should be visible above the table.
- Wine is common at lunch and dinner.
- Greeks love to eat, so they will assume you will want seconds.
If you don’t leave a little on your plate, the same with drinks.
- You will be permitted or encouraged to go to the kitchen to see
what they have to offer.
- Don’t order anything fried unless it’s cooked to order.
- The waiter will not come up to your table to check on you, you
are expected to get his attention.
- Any method goes within reason.
Sources
A summary of this information can be found at Greek Etiquette
Guide.
For more information go to:
http://workabroad.monster.com
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