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It is worth paying attention to the following points at business meetings in Bulgaria:
- As a general rule, business behavior in Bulgaria is similar to that in the rest of Europe: a handshake at the beginning and end of the meeting is an accepted custom. Care should be taken to shake hands with everyone present at the meeting.
- Immediately after a handshake at the start of the meeting, it is customary to exchange business cards. Make sure that you take sufficient business cards with you.
- In addressing new business acquaintances, it is not customary to use first names.
- The accepted dress for business meetings is a business suit for men and women are recommended to dress fashionably but not loudly.
- Most business people in Bulgaria have good command of English, However a few words in Bulgarian will easily break the ice and create a friendly atmosphere. The presence of a translator will help advance a business meeting.
- Acceptable gifts for business meetings are items for the office, quality pens (including pens with your company logo) as well as specially selected wines.
- A fairly long time is required to fix a meeting. Take account of the fact that senior executives often have a background from the Communist era. Make sure in advance by fax or letter, before the meeting, that it will in fact take place.
- You are recommended to avoid business meetings in the months of July and August or around the times of national holidays.
- It is important to note that in Bulgaria, a nod of the head indicates 'no' while a shake means 'yes'.
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