3. Appointments 5/20/2010 Shannon Overly 3 Be prepared to wait 15-45 minutes to go into the office May want to bring work or a book to fill your time waiting Monday thru Friday Some are open Saturday mornings
4. Business Dress Clothing will be perceived as a reflection Dress tends to be on the formal side for both men and women Choose clothing that is both tasteful and stylish Wear shined shoes if in doubt wear the best pair of shoes you possess 5/20/2010 4 Shannon Overly
5. Conversation 5/20/2010 Shannon Overly 5 Rarely a moment of silence May talk about Italian art, films, sports, food, wine and opera Avoid talking about religion, politics, taxes , World War 2, and the Mafia
6. First Name or Title? Wait until you are invited before using first names People often use titles and surnames even when they have worked together for years When introduced to strangers use Signore (Mr.) and Signora (Mrs.) plus the family name 5/20/2010 6 Shannon Overly
7. Gift Giving Refrain from giving a business gift until you receive one first Gifts are expected for social events Gifts are usually opened at the time they are given and received Gifts should be brand name Alcohol or crafts from your own country are often good choices 5/20/2010 7 Shannon Overly
8. Let’s Make a Deal 5/20/2010 Shannon Overly 8 Most Italians do not speak English Use a business card, one side English and reverse side Italian Italians speak loudly, and animatedly Italians tend to be guided by their feelings
9. Entertaining 5/20/2010 Shannon Overly 9 Dining in a restaurant Business decisions are not made at dinner time Lunch should be a light starter Start with soup, pasta or rice, then meat or fish with vegetables Meals finish with desserts or cheese with fruit, and a espresso
10. Entertaining 5/20/2010 Shannon Overly 10 Do not raise your hands or fingers Do not chew gum in restaurants or on the street Coffee is taken throughout the day Italian regional wines are usually served with dinner White wine is served with appetizers or fish Red wine with meats
11. Entertaining Italians do not switch knives and forks Knife remains in the right hand, and the fork remains in the left Pass dishes to your left Be careful adding salt, pepper or ketchup to your food When not eating, keep your wrists resting above the table 5/20/2010 11 Shannon Overly
12. Public Behavior 5/20/2010 Shannon Overly 12 You will always be introduced to older people and women first It is best to follow this protocol when introducing yourself Frequent warm and vigorous handshakes Italians like to gesture with their hands while talking
13. Any Questions? Contact.. Shannon Overly Beaverton High School 989-246-3010 http://www.executiveplanet.com/index.php?title=Italy 5/20/2010 13 Shannon Overly
