Italian Business Etiquette
Don'ts
Don't rush the decision-making process
Rushing the process it seen as a weakness
Italians factor in the advantages & risks of a situation before forming a decision → causes negotiations to happen slowly
Lengthy meetings occur before a verdict is reached
Don't put your hands in your lap or your elbows on the table while eating during a business lunch or dinner
Doing so is seen as disrespectful & inappropriate
Individuals have placed their elbows on the table, this is frowned upon & contradicts Italian business dining etiquette
Don't give an even number of flowers (specifically roses) & avoid giving chrysanthemums
These flowers/bouquets are used at funerals & symbolize death
White roses & chrysanthemums used as a funeral spray
Do's
Do schedule appointments 2-3 weeks in advance & confirm the meeting during the week of the scheduled date
It is seen as rude to schedule appointments late & to drop in unannounced
Do be patient & flexible
Punctuality is not of great importance to Italians & small delays in meetings should not be interpreted as a sign of lack of respect → meetings tend to begin & end later than planned
Do dress formally
Men are to wear dark colour suits while woman should be wearing modest suits, either pantsuits or skirt suits
Men & women Italian business attire
