Business Etiquette in Italy. Culture of Italy

Elders expect and get respect;
Respect and defer to those who:
1) have achieved a level of business success,
2) come from well-connected families.

The way you dress indicates your social status, your family's background, your education level ;
The concept of 'bella figura' or good image – very important ;
Men should wear dark coloured, conservative business suits + elegant accessories;
Women should wear business suits or conservative dresses + elegant accesories.

Handshake + direct eye contact + smile;
Relationship – embracing and air-kissing on both cheeks is often added;
Wait until invited to move to a first name basis;
Italians - effusive in their public behavior – expect to be looked at in public;
You have to demonstrate propriety and respect when meeting them for the first time;
Calling cards - the person's name, address, title and telephone number;
Never give your business card in lieu of a calling card.

Chrysanthemums - used at funerals;
Red flowers - indicate secrecy;
Yellow flowers - indicate jealousy;
Wine - make sure it is a good vintage – quality;
Wrapping gifts in black - a mourning colour;
Wrapping gifts in purple - a symbol of bad luck;
Gifts are usually opened when received.…