Czech Business Etiquette
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To be successful in business relations in the Czech Republic, it is important to understand and respect Czech business etiquette. Czech culture is formal and reserved, so titles should be used, small talk engaged in to build relationships, and decisions made in tandem with Czech colleagues. Documents should be provided already translated into Czech to demonstrate professionalism and accommodate any language barriers. Meetings should not be scheduled on Fridays or in mid-July through mid-August to respect family and vacation time. Punctuality, organization, modest attire, and respect for personal space are also valued in Czech business culture.
Czech Business Etiquette
- 2. Proper knowledge and performance of Czech business etiquette will allow you to impress potential colleagues and demonstrate your respect for their culture and their business procedures. Practicing proper Czech business etiquette is vital to establishing business relations in the Czech Republic. Before traveling abroad, it is beneficial to understand the Czech culture, realizing that it is formal and reserved will help you to respect local customs.
- 3. Do not address anyone by first name. Use titles when introducing yourself and during the meeting, unless otherwise requested. Czechs value a strong relationship and personal bonds rather than strict and tedious rules and policies. Because of this, be sure to engage in small talk at first, and remember that hospitality is the best way to build a solid relationship.
- 4. Decisions will be made completely in tandem with your Czech colleagues. Avoid overly aggressive attitudes, and do not expect that all decisions will be reached right away.
- 5. To demonstrate your professionalism and to aid in the language barrier, it is a wonderful demonstration of your willingness to dedicate to the new relationship by offering your documents already translated. Your new Czech colleagues will be duly impressed if you go that extra mile by presenting them with a Czech translation of all pertinent documents.
- 6. Avoid scheduling on Friday afternoons as weekends are sacred family time. Also, keep in mind that most Czech business people are on a 4 week vacation period from mid-July to mid- August.
- 7. Be punctual and organized in your scheduling. Also, your Czech colleagues value formality, privacy, and respect personal space, especially in the business environment.
- 8. Very modest attire is always most appropriate. Avoid vivid colors and loud patterns. It is best to present yourself in classy and conservative attire for both men and women. Men specifically should always wait until the highest ranking Czech in the room has removed the suit jacket before doing so.