Greeting

The exchange of greetings in Italian culture seems quite emotional and even warm, but at the same time somewhat formal. While introducing each other, the parties exchange a handshake accompanied by a welcoming smile. It is important to maintain eye contact with your partner.

Italians shake hands both before and at the end of a meeting. This is a customary greeting ritual not only in official but also in informal situations and even if they have known each other for a long time.

When greeting a woman, a man should wait until she extends her hand to greet him.

Hugs and kisses (on each cheek, starting with the left) are accepted between close friends. There is no real kissing involved. The interlocutors just lightly touch each other's cheek.

Kissing is more common as a greeting between women, although it is also possible between women and men who, for example, have known each other for a long time because they are long-time partners or have worked together in the same company for many years.

As one gets to know the Italian partner more closely, the relationship may become warmer and more emotional. In this case, greetings between men may include a hug and a pat on the shoulder in addition to a handshake. However, wait for your Italian counterpart to take the initiative.

The rules of politeness in Italian culture tell you that you should always greet the person older than you in age or position first. And only then proceed to greet other people.

If you are sitting and an older person enters the room, you should stand up and greet them standing.

The usual forms of greeting are: "Buongiorno!" (Good morning! or Good afternoon!) is used in the morning; "Buonasera!" (Good evening!) is used in the afternoon or evening.

A less formal greeting is "Ciao!" (Hello!).

Introduction

When communicating with Italian colleagues, it is important to remember their hierarchical position in the company, as well as the requirements of proper protocol. When addressing them, use polite forms such as Signore (Mr), Signora (Mrs) or Signorina (Miss) followed by the surname (not the person's first name).

Over time, your Italian partner may suggest that you call him or her by his or her first name. Do not take the initiative yourself in this case, wait for your partner's suggestion. At the same time, older Italians prefer traditional address using forms of politeness throughout the communication.

Academic degrees and titles are highly valued in Italy. It is not uncommon to address a person who has graduated from university with the title of 'Dottore' (Doctor). You can also use this title to address a medical doctor or a holder of a PhD in any field of study.

The forms of address 'Dottore' and 'Dottoressa' (to a woman) are sometimes used in Italian society, even if people do not know each other's educational status. Both forms are the accepted norm and are regarded as a manifestation of polite and courteous behaviour.

Professional qualifications are often used in business communication, for example, Ingegnere (Engineer) or Avvocato/Avvocata (Lawyer). When using them, be sure to give the surname of the person you are communicating with after the title.

When using names and titles/ranks, follow the lead of your Italian colleagues. Stick to the level of formality appropriate to the situation.

Italian women generally do not change their surname to their husband's surname after marriage. Some women add their husband's surname to their own.

At an event with a large number of people, in the absence of formal introductions, self-presentations are accepted, i.e. you can proactively state your surname, first name and (if necessary) other information, addressing the group of people around you.

Exchange of Business Cards

In Italian business practice, it is customary to exchange business cards during the introduction in the first meeting.

Show respect for your partner and before putting it on the table in front of you (e.g. in a business meeting or negotiation situation) read it paying attention to the name of the holder and his/her position, possible titles and ranks.

Business cards are exchanged only at the first meeting, each person present should get one.

The text of the business card should be in Italian on one of its sides, on the other side it can be in English or your native language.

Your partner in Italy may have 3 business cards using them in different situations: one of them (business card for business purposes) gives all the information necessary for business, besides your full name, such as: company name, position, all degrees, titles, ranks and contact information.

Another business card contains the contact information, name, title and position of the owner. However, it does not have his or her titles, ranks and degrees. The third business card (called calling card in English) has only the name and possible contact information of the holder.

If you are in Italy for an extended period of time, it is a good idea to have a variety of business cards. Never offer a calling card instead of a business card.

Small Talk: Overview

Italians tend to build personal relationship in business. For this conversing with partners is very important. They easily get engaged in lively small talking.

It is very important to maintain eye contact with your interlocutor during the conversation. By doing so, you demonstrate interest in the topic being discussed. Lack of eye contact (for example, when you look away) can be interpreted as insincere behaviour.

Italians, especially southern Italians (south of Rome), tend to behave emotionally and expressively during conversations. Body language and gesticulation, which they use extensively, is an integral part and the most important characteristic of communication in Italian society.

Preferred Topics

Sport, and football in particular, is an important topic that will be well received in Italian society. If you know your partner's favourite team, keep up to date with its news. Another favourite sport is cycling.

Culture and art of Italy, as well as landmarks, historical monuments and nature of the country.

Family and topics related to family life.

Hobbies, such as travelling, books, cars, films.

Local (and other) cuisine, food.

Local news (including political).

Taboo Topics

All religious issues are taboo topics.

Avoid criticising culture, people, life in general in Italy. Italians are very proud of their country and especially of their cultural heritage.

Topics related to politics or the actions of authorities are viewed as unpleasant. However, even if Italians themselves openly complain about local politicians, this does not mean that foreigners are "allowed" to do the same.

Do not bring up topics related to corruption, crime or the Mafia.

Avoid questions about your interlocutor's work (especially in non-business communication situations). This is considered personal space.

It is not a good idea to start a conversation about World War II.

Personal Space

When talking, Italians stand quite close to each other - closer than other Europeans or North Americans. At the same time, they gesture actively and often touch each other, for example, by patting each other on the shoulder or arm, hugging each other or holding hands while walking.

Body language is an important feature of Italian communication style. For them, it is not only another way to express an idea, but also (sometimes significantly) to supplement it, to indicate their attitude to it or show some extra feelings.

You should not copy the Italians' behaviour in conversation. Body language is, in general, a rather complex sphere, which is well understood (or rather, felt) only by those who belong to this or that culture.

Communication Specifics

In the early stages of a business relationship, etiquette and protocol should be observed. This means using the formal titles and ranks of your partner when communicating with them. It is important to be particularly courteous and polite when talking to an older person.

This kind of respect is also shown towards new business partners or individuals who hold a high position in the company hierarchy. Speech in this case should be appropriate to the situation.

Over time, a closer relationship is established between partners and a sense of trust is created, which is very important for Italians. The level of formality becomes lower, manifested both in communication in general and in the speech forms used.

If you are younger than your Italian colleague, wait for the initiative and willingness on his part to move to a more informal relationship. If you are older, be prepared to take the first step to reduce the degree of formality in the relationship - it will only be your decision, however expected by others.