- 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.
-
Typical business attire for men is
a suit and a tie.
-
Acceptable women’s clothing includes
a suit, a blouse, and a skirt below the knee. Sleeveless
is considered inappropriate.
-
Vibrant colors such as fuschia or
lime green are not recommended. More subdued colors
are appropriate for shirts, ties, and shoes.
-
Family and Friends are everything;
the group you’re associated with requires absolute
loyalty.
-
The building of trust and personal
relationships in business is important before any
real tasks will be accomplished.
-
Keereeoss (Mr.) and Keereeah (Mrs.)
plus the family name are a must when introduced
to anyone.
-
You will typically be introduced
to older people and men first, women second. Follow
this protocol when introducing yourself.
-
Social events usually start at least
an hour late and have no set ending time.
-
Many Greeks in business speak English.
-
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.
-
Plan your meetings as carefully and
well in advance as you can, but expect changes.
-
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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