Greece culture

Greece is a country of a great interests and diverse cultures, influenced by its location, at the junction between the East and the West and by the many occupations endured by the Greek people throughout history.Greeks in Greece are particularly proud of their culture, country and speak of it with an intense passion, feeling that their culture is a definition of their national and ethnic belonging. Traditions, religion, music, language, food and wines are the major composites of the Greece culture and constitute the base for those who wish to visit the beautiful country of Greece.

Relationships and Communication

. Relationships are the linchpin of business dealings since Greeks prefer to do business with those they know and trust.

. They maintain an intricate web of family and friends to call upon for business assistance since they can be confident of their trustworthiness.

. Nepotism is not viewed negatively and it is very common for relatives to work for the same company.

. Greeks prefer face-to-face meetings rather than doing business by telephone or in writing, which are seen as too impersonal.

. It takes time to develop relationships: this can be done in the office, over extended lunches, dinners, and social outings.

. Never say or do anything that can be construed as challenging the honour or integrity of a business colleague.

. Under no circumstances should you publicly question someone's statements.

. Greeks do not like people who are pretentious or standoffish.

. Although business is relaxed, it is also serious. Acting informal before a relationship has developed is considered discourteous.

. If your Greek business colleagues become quiet and withdrawn, you may have said or done something to upset them.

Cultural Nuances

To say "no" in Greece use an upward nod of the head. For 'yes' tilt the head to either side. However, note that many Greeks now also use the European/North American gestures too so it can be confusing!The "OK" sign (circled thumb and forefinger) may be considered obscene. Never raise an open palm at face level as this is an insult.

If you see a Greek make a puff of breath through the lips, they are warding off the "evil eye". This is usually done after receiving a compliment.

Business Meeting Etiquette

1) Appointments are necessary and should be made 1 to 2 weeks in advance, although it is often possible to schedule them on short notice.2) Confirm meetings one day in advance by telephone.3) Many businesspeople eat lunch between 1 and 3 p.m., so this is not the optimal time for a meeting.4) Quite often it is not until the third meeting that business is actually conducted.5) During the first meeting your Greek business colleagues will want to get to know something about you as a person.6) The second meeting is used to develop trust and mutual respect. 7)By the third meeting, business may begin.8)Have printed material available in both English and Greek. 9) Meetings are often interrupted. 10) Several people may speak at the same time.11) Greeks will deviate from agendas. 12)They view agendas as starting points for discussions and will then follow the discussion to the next logical place.13) Although some business people speak English, it is a good idea to hire an interpreter.