More than ever, business is taking place on an international level with people from different countries working alongside each other. While some of this takes via distant communication, there are some occasions when business people need to meet face-to-face. If you are working with Italians, either in Italy or in your own country, then it is important that you understand how Italians conduct business.
Formal Attir
In a business setting, the Italians dress formally in office attire and will expect others they are working with to emulate this style.
Punctuality
When Italians meet for drinks, social etiquette says that you should always be late and nobody ever arrives to a party or for drinks at the given time. However, this is not the case when it comes to business meetings. When you are given a time to meet, make sure you are punctual if not early.
Communicating
Unless you know the people you are working with very well, it is expected that you will address people formally. There are also many unwritten rules about the way you communicate and conduct yourself in business, so you may need to take advice or learn from experience.
Prepare for the Paperwork
If you are working in an Italian business setting, there is always a lot of paperwork. Italy is famous for its bureaucracy and no matter what task you are completing, you are likely to find that you will have a phenomenal amount of forms and documents to complete.
Business Entertaining
While you are working with Italians, they may wish to entertain you. Even though this is less formal than a meeting in the office, it is still considered a working environment. You should arrive on time and dress appropriately for the venue. It is also worth remembering that drinking excessively is frowned upon in Italy, especially in formal situations.
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