Italy Behavior
 Italian
history has played a crucial role in the modern
business world.
Some
of their contributions include banking, insurance,
and double-entry bookkeeping.
"Time
is money" is not a common phrase in Italy.
Foreign
businessmen/women should be punctual for business
appointments, although the Italian executive may
not be.
Handshakes
are common for both sexes, and may include grasping
the arm with the other hand.
Do
not expect quick decisions or actions to take place,
as the Italian bureaucracy and legal systems are
rather slow.
Italian
companies often have a rigid hierarchy, with little
visible association between the ranks.
It
is common for everyone to speak simultaneously
at Italian gatherings. This applies to business
meetings as well as social events.
Do
not exchange business cards at social occasions;
but it is the norm at business functions and meetings.
Italians
often have two different business cards, one with
business credentials for formal relationships,
and another with personal information for less
formal relationships.
Italian
cards are often plain white with black print.
When
entering a business function, the most senior or
eldest person present should always be given special
treatment.
When
invited to someone's home, bring gift-wrapped chocolates,
pastries, or flowers. Flowers must be given
in even numbers, except for a dozen (12) or half-dozen
(6), especially if roses.
If
you bring wine as a gift, make sure that it is
of excellent vintage, as many Italians are wine
connoisseurs.
Avoid
giving anything in a quantity of 17, as 17 is considered
to be bad luck, or a doomed number.
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