Business Customs Hungary

Greeting

Greeting Both Hungarian men and women greet by shaking hands Woman extends her hand first to the man It is important to make eye contact Our language uses third person verbs and nouns when talking to a partner, a stranger or someone older (like in French)

An embarrassing incident There was an incident involving the Hungarian Prime Minister and the President of the Indian National Congress party In political and business fields it is not acceptable for men to kiss women’s hands The PM was not completely aware of the Indian protocol The President of the INC turned the kiss into a handshake

An embarrassing incident

Meetings

Meetings Fix the time of the meeting precisely in advance in writing Do not cancel the meeting at the last minute Be punctual – Arrive 10 minutes before meeting time Phone if you are late and give explanation – Heavy traffic is a good excuse

Business dinners

When entering a restaurant, men first After taking seats, women should apologise and go to the toilet to readjust their makeup Keep your business card placed in front of you on the table during dinner Keep your mobile phone mute Concluding contracts is the last step of the process after eating, drinking and socializing Conversation starts with initiative talk

Conversation

Conversation People should be addressed by their titles and surnames Eye contact shows sincerity Hungarians are emotive speakers: they say what they think and expect you to do the same Tell all details accurately

Conversation Avoid topics like: – Religion – Politics – Indecent jokes – Private life – Gossips – Money Prefer topics like: – Weather – Sport – Healthy lifestyle – Economics – Hobbies

Dress code for men Dark business suit Plain shirt Tie

Dress code for women Smart dress Business suit Good quality accessories

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