Business Etiquette Rome

Business etiquette in Rome

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Good manners and courtesy are prized qualities in Rome. When doing business in Rome ensure your conduct is always polished. There are etiquettes and protocols for many social and business situations, however, it is important to remember that Romans rate considerateness above behavioral formulas.

When meeting and departing always shake hands. This is valid for both individuals and groups. After doing business in Italy for a period of time and building relationships do not be surprised if you are embraced or even kissed on the cheeks (although this is rare in formal business situations) when being met. This indicates the relationship has reached an intimate level.

When doing business in Italy you will notice that little personal space is left between people when interacting. In addition, Italians are a tactile people. Moving away or keeping your distance may be interpreted as cold and unfriendly.

If you can speak Italian, use the polite form until a relationship is established, then use the more informal ”tu” form. When doing business in Italy, address people using Signor (male) or Signora (female) followed by their surname. Dottore (male) or Dottoressa (female) is used for those who have graduated.

When doing business in Italy, dress to impress. It is no coincidence that Versace, Gucci, Prada and Dolce & Gabbana are all Italian fashion houses. Italians like to make an impression with their clothes. What you wear speaks volumes about the kind of person you are and first impression are lasting impressions. Take the time to ask questions about your business colleagues family and personal interests, as this helps build the relationship, but do not press the matter if your questions are met with polite but brief answers.

Romans are extremely expressive communicators. They tend to be wordy, eloquent, emotional, and demonstrative. While it’s no longer true the archetypal figure of the excessive Roman gesturing, still people often uses facial and hand gestures to prove their point. And don’t be scared if suddenly everybody around the table starts speaking at the same time and rising their voice.

Romans are usually relaxed around issues relating to time. Being late with a good reason will not have any negative consequences. However, deliberate lateness is considered sloppy and taking your host or partner time for granted is rude. When doing business in Italy err on the side of caution and aim to be punctual.

Hospitality plays a key role in Rome’s business culture. Invitations to lunch and dinner are to be expected when doing business. At such occasions a small exclusive group will usually be present. Each attendee will have a particular interest in your visit. If you plan to host a meal, ask the most senior Italian contact who you should invite.

Dining does have certain protocol in Italy. However, do not place too much emphasis on this as more time would be spent worrying about etiquette mistakes than enjoying the experience. Major etiquette tips are that the most honored guest sits at the middle of the table or on the right of the host; the host always pays; pass dishes to the left; keep your knife in the right hand and fork in the left and do not answer phone calls or text while at the table.

Romans prefer to do business with someone they know. When doing business in Italy, use contacts and networks to introduce you before proceeding to set up meetings. A trusted third party introduction will go a long way in providing an initial platform from which to work. Romans much prefer face-to-face contact, so it is important to spend time in Italy developing the relationship. Most up to date firms know and use teleconferencing tools, but a live meeting is still considered more efficient.

Negotiations can be slow. Demonstrating a sense of urgency is seen as a sign of weakness. At the beginning of a meeting avoid business and concentrate on some small talk. Topics of discussion could include Italian culture, food, wine and football. Italians will take away proposals and analyze them carefully. Be sure to offer as much information as possible in written form for them to take away.
 

This is most you need to know for business etiquette in Rome. If you need informations about etiquette on more informal occasions, you can read them right here.

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