Italian Culture

Italians prefer to do business with someone they know.

Use contacts and networks to introduce you before proceeding to set up meetings.

To arrange a meeting write, in Italian, first.

Follow this up with a phone call, fax or e-mail.

The best time for meetings is between 10 - 11 a.m. and after 3 p.m.

Avoid August as most businesses will run on skeleton staff due to holidays.

Negotiations can be slow.

Demonstrating a sense of urgency is seen as a sign of weakness.

At the beginning of a meeting concentrate on some small talk.

Topics of discussion could include Italian culture, food, and soccer.

Italians will take away proposals and analyse them carefully.

Be sure to offer as much information as possible in written form for them to take away. 

Good manners and courtesy are prized qualities in Italy.

Ensure your conduct is always polished.

Remember that Italians rate considerateness above behavioural formulas.

Always shake hands. This is valid for both individuals and groups.

After doing business in Italy for a period of time and building relationships do not be surprised if you are embraced when being met.

When doing business in Italy you will notice that little personal space is left between people when interacting

Italians are a tactile people.

Use the polite 'lei' form until a relationship is established.

Use the more informal 'tu' form.

Address people using 'Signor' (m) or 'Signora' (f) followed by their surname. '

Dottore' (m) or 'Dottoressa' (f) is used for those who have graduated.

Dress to impress. It is no coincidence that Versace, Gucci and Prada are all Italian fashion houses.

Italians like to make an impression with their clothes.

What you wear speaks volumes about the kind of person you are.

Italians are usually relaxed around issues relating to time.Like her in tht UAE.

Being late with a good reason will not have any negative consequences.

Deliberate lateness is considered sloppy and taking people's time for granted is simply rude.

When doing business in Italy err on the side of caution and aim to be punctual. 

Hospitality plays a key role in Italian business culture.

Invitations to lunch and dinner are to be expected when doing business there.

At such occasions a small exclusive group will usually be present.

Each attendee will have a particular interest in your visit.

If you plan to host a meal, ask the most senior Italian contact who you should invite.

Dining does have certain protocol in Italy.

Do not place too much emphasis on this as more time would be spent worrying about etiquette mistakes than enjoying the experience.

Major etiquette tips are that the most honoured guest sits at the middle of the table or on the right of the host. 

The host always pays; pass dishes to the left.

 keep your knife in the right hand and fork in the left. 

Do not answer phone calls at the table.(kwintessential, 2014)