It is worth paying attention to the following points at business meetings in Greece:
- Dress in Greece is formal, even in the hot summer months.
- It is the custom to use a person's surname rather than a first name on first meeting until a longer acquaintanceship has been established.
- Some business people have a good command of English and others of French.
- Greek people have warm and friendly natures.
- Acceptable gifts for business meetings are items for the office, quality pens (including pens with your company logo) as well as specially selected wines.
- It is recommended to start a business meeting with polite conversation of a general nature, over a cup of coffee or with soft drinks. Only after that, should the conversation turn to business matters.
- A handshake is customary at the beginning and end of a meeting, sometimes after a first meeting you may receive an embrace.
- On receiving an invitation to a home, luxury chocolate, a scarf for the hostess or flowers is a welcome gift.
- The Greeks are not heavy consumers of alcohol but smoking is extremely prevalent. Do not be surprised to be offered cigarettes during a business meeting.
- Business cards in English and Greek are customary.
- You are recommended to avoid business meetings in the months of July and August or around the times of national holidays.
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