- Eye contact during the introduction is very important,
and must be maintained as long as the individual is addressing you.
- Only during greetings do Russians display affection in
public. Relatives and good friends will engage in an animated embrace and kiss
each other on the cheeks.
- The “thumbs-up” sign can be an acceptable gesture of
approval.
- Smoking in public places is still a common occurrence,
although the Russians are slowly becoming aware of the need to impose some
restrictions on this activity.
- Speaking or laughing loudly in public is discouraged.
- Wearing your coat and/or winter boots in theatres,
office buildings or similar public spaces is considered unacceptable.
- Russian people in general probably spend more money from
their family budget on clothing then any other nation in the world.
- If you're a man, your best bet will be to wear a suit
and tie (make sure not to wear the same ones every day) for all your meetings,
whether it's in an office or restaurant. Dark colors and white shirts are only
for special occasions.
- Jeans and sneakers can be acceptable casual wear.
- Women must wear a long-sleeved blouse, a long skirt
below the knees, and a head covering such as a scarf or hat.
- Visitors should try to speak in a calm, moderate, tone
of voice at all times.
- Russians are sometimes very careful about what they say,
and may revert to speaking metaphorically, symbolically, and perhaps even
cryptically. Consequently, there is a great deal of reliance on nonverbal
communication. At other times, however, they can be extremely frank; it all
depends on the situation.
- When a Russian touches another person during
conversation, it is usually a sign of confidence.
- Bringing up the subject of Russian culture and history
can be an appreciated gesture. Russians are extremely educated--so don't be
surprised if they start to talk about the history (more likely than culture)
of your own country. Be prepared.
- There is tremendous affection for children in this
culture; if you are a parent, showing photographs of your children can be an
effective way of building good will.
- The use of business cards is common, and often a necessity, since
telephone books are not widely distributed in certain areas.
- It's an asset to have your business card translated into Russian on the
reverse side. In addition to your full name and title, make sure you include
any university degrees you have earned.
- It's recommended that you bring all of the documents you need with you,
since fax machines, computers and photocopiers, if available at all, may
function inadequately. In Russian business culture, there are few women in
positions of real authority, influence.
- It's essential for women business travelers to dress and act
professionally at all times. Even then, women are likely to face considerable
challenges conducting business in this county.
- Allowing your Russian contact to get to know you personally is an
essential part of successfully conducting business here. It will also help if
you make the effort to appear down to earth, sincere, and reliable.
- When you are running a meeting make sure that you have a plentiful supply
of soft drinks, tea, coffee, Danishes, cookies, and similar snacks. Don’t
serve beverages in plastic cups.
- The business dinner is generally a time for “sealing” a deal.
- The center seats are reserved for the most senior officials. You should be
seated on the opposite side of the table from your Russian counterparts.
- Women are discouraged from dining alone in restaurants
- Toasting is a very important part of dining.
- If you're unsure of which utensil to use, start from the outside to work
your way in, course by course.
- Be aware that your Russian counterparts may prefer conducting business
when you are drunk. Know when it's time to stop, since every time you drain
your glass, you may be urged to have a “refill.”
- Russia is a drinking culture. Refusing to drink is unacceptable unless you
give a good excuse. Also you may smile and pretend that you are drinking, to
show that you accept the toast and respect those around you.
Source
A summary of this information can be found at Executive Planet.
For more information go to:
http://www.executiveplanet.com |
