Dining

This post is to inform you of the respectful mannerisms of Italian dining.


Dining plays a major role in the Italian business. Knowing the correct mannerisms is important in Italian etiquette. As Americans, we would consider the traditional meal of spaghetti and meatballs as "Italian" but in Italy it's unheard of to many. And for all of the soda lovers, sugary drinks are insulting to the taste buds. Italy's culture is much different that was us Americans are used to so it's important to practice the proper manners to so that you can adapt.

Table manners:

• Always be on time
• Eat with your knife in your right hand and your fork in your left
• Pass dishes to the left
• Allow the hostess to be seated and proceed to follow
• Begin eating once the hostess has begun eating or when the hostess instructs the guests to do so
• Keep elbows tucked near your body and off the table
• Determine that you're done eating by placing your fork and knife diagonally across your plate
• Allow the sever to continue topping off your wine and once finished, leave it full
• Wait for the hostess to exit the table to leave

Dinner is basically arranged to get to know people. Business can be talked amongst people but only at breakfast, which doesn't typically happen. Breakfast runs from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and lunches are in the late afternoon. Dinner usually doesn't start until 8 p.m. or 9 p.m. Italians generally eat three meals a day and do not snack in between. And if you invite guests to a dining experience, make sure your wallet is full because if you invite, you pay!

Work cited:

http://www.ediplomat.com/np/cultural_etiquette/ce_it.htm
http://www.fodors.com/news/story_3483.html
http://www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/italy-country-profile.html

Communication

My first post was to inform the actual standards of appearance in Italy. This is my second post and it is to inform how to interact more effectively with Italian clients and colleagues.



Italians speak a lot so communication is a valuable trait. Not only is communicating valuable, but having confidence when doing so is important. Those who live in Italy practice formal politeness both verbally and non-verbally.

Greetings and Introductions:

• Greet colleagues by saying "Cioa a tutti" or Ciao come stai"
• Say goodbye by saying "Buongiorno a tutti" or "Ciao, stammi bene, civediamo all prossima"
• Give stern eye contact to show respect
• Knock before entering an office and always close the door behind you
• Give women a kiss on the check and men a shoulder slap
• Introduce the most senior members first, followed by women, and then any other members in your party.

 

Conversations:

• Use hand gestures to show your point or feelings
• Placing your hand on your stomach means dislike for another person
• Give eye contact during the entire conversation
• Link arms with others, as it is common to have closer conversations in Italy
• Learn few phrases of the Italian language to follow the etiquette rules of Italy

 

Business Meetings:

• Greetings are enthusiastic
• Address people using "Signor or Signora", followed by the last name when conducting the meeting
• Use a more informal "tu" form when familiar with each other
• Break the ice by initiating small talk and proceed to get into talking business
• Expect the meeting to be a time to share ideas and thoughts, rather than pursuing any drastic decisions at the time
• Distribute all documents in both English and Italian
• Schedule appointments at least 2 weeks in advance
• Reconfirm future meetings
• Follow through with any verbal commitments

Choosing to enter the country without knowing the rules of the etiquette may cause you to have an unpleasant and rude demeanor to others. I hope that my post brings successful interactions for the future!

 Work Cited:

http://www.venturenavigator.co.uk/content/560
http://www.todaytranslations.com/doing-business-in/Italy
http://www.ehow.com/about_6593512_italian-business-etiquette-fashion.html

Italian Style

This blog is to inform you of the proper attire and style to attain when working with people in Italy.

Italy is a very fashionable country that takes pride in all aspects of appearance. People determine how one carries themselves by their clothing. Without speaking, a simple glimpse can tell one's social standing and success as a businessperson. First impressions are the lasting impressions that people get when meeting someone in Italy, so it's important to be properly dressed for the occasion and place.

Clothing:

• Formal attire is expected
• Designer clothes and big brand names are substantial
• Accessories for men and women are widely practiced
• Women are to dress with elegance, as men are to dress sophisticated
• Italian women wear more makeup and jewelry than American women
• Managers are very well groomed while wearing good quality and clean cut clothing
• Earthy colors are worn more than bright colors

As Americans, we are much more laid back. Italians may take offense and feel disrespected if the improper attire is worn. It's beneficial for one to know what to expect before working with Italians, especially in the business world. One's reputation can be immediately ruined if they are unaware of the expected style.

Work Cited:

www.worldbusinessculture.com/Italian-Business-Dress-Style.html

www.executiveplanet.com/index.php?title=Italy:_Business_Dress

www.kwintessential.co.uk/resources/global-etiquette/italy-coun