Acceptable Public Behavior

• When joining or exiting a group acknowledge all members individually and shake their hand.
• It is common to see two people of either sex walking together holding hands, often in the evenings.
• Personal space is much smaller in Italy than in America.
• Italians are generally not annoyed by people cutting ahead of them while in line.
• Not maintaining eye contact shows boredom.
• Dislike for another is shown by placing your hand on your stomach.

Business Attire

• General
  • People dress more formally in Italy.
  • Shoes should not be marked or worn out.
  • Jeans, shorts, and sneakers are unacceptable for business.
• Men
  • Accessories such as cuff links and tie clips are common.
  • Men wear dark suits with sophisticated ties.

• Women
  • Women do not generally wear stockings in the summer.
  • Simple, elegant clothes are normal attire.

Conversations and Networking

• It is preferred to be introduced to someone through a third party.
• There are rarely lulls in conversations in Italy.
• Good topics of conversation are art and films, sports (especially soccer), current events and opera.
• Topics to avoid are negative stereotypes about Italians, personal family matters, saying anything bad about the local soccer team and World War II.

Meetings, Presentations, and Negotiation Tactics

• While it is a good idea to arrive on time, punctuality is not a requirement for Italians.
• Italians prefer to do business with the more important members of an organization.
• It is extremely important to present yourself well.
• Italian communication styles are wordy and emotional.
• Italians are slow in making final decisions, trying to rush them to decide on something will be seen as insulting.
• Never insult the pride of an Italian.

Dinner Etiquette

• Hospitality is important in Italian culture, do not refuse an invitation to dine.
• Many meetings are held over lunch.
• Never drink too much alcohol during a business meal.
• Dishes should be passed to your left.
• Be careful when adding condiments to your food as it could appear that you find the food bland.
• Keep your wrists above the table when not eating.
• Do not use bread to mop up any oils or gravy.

Other

• Do not give gifts with your company logo on it.
• Do not address someone by their first name until they give you permission.

Sources