Communication Etiquette:
• Both men and women will greet by shaking hands
– A man should wait for the women to extend her hand
– The older generation may still bow to women
– Close friends will kiss each other lightly on both cheeks
– Address by their surnames
• They expect friends to share personal details about life
– If they ask you these questions they are just trying to get to know you
• The family in Hungary is the foundation of their social structure
• When visiting the house of a Hungarian it is not always necessary to bring gifts
– Do not bring foreign wine
– Bring chocolates or flowers
– Flowers should be given in odd numbers – except for 13 it is unlucky
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Business Etiquette:
• They do not need long term relationships in order to do business
– Being introduced by someone they know and trust will often get business moving
• Hungarians value the social aspect of the relationship
• Eye contact shows trust
– If you can’t look someone in the eye while speaking then you are hiding something
• Appointments and meetings should be made in advance
– And a reminder follow up letter or email sent
• Business is normally conducted slowly
• They are very detail oriented and must understand every part of a negotiation
– Contracts should be clear
• Dress is formal and conservative
– Men – dark business suits and a white shirt and tie
– Women – Business suits or elegant dresses with good accessories
• Business cards are exchanged upon initial meeting