The Greeks are known for their hospitality and generosity towards guests.
They are not known for their timeliness. Visitors to Greece should be prepared for meetings to start late and run late, however as a foreigner you will be expected to be on time for appointments. The new subway system, put in for the 2004 Summer Olympics, can be much faster for getting from one side of the city to another than taking a taxi.
The Greeks celebrate two national days among other holidays that are religious in nature. Independence Day is celebrated on March 25 and “Oxi” (which means No) Day is celebrated on October 28.
During business meetings you will be offered a Greek coffee, often accompanied by a small sweet of some kind. A typically Greek coffee resembles an espresso and can be quite strong.
Greeks are avid conversationalists and typically very knowledgeable about world events. The Greek style of conversation is often much louder and more emotional than people are used to. It has been said that Greeks live their lives with an exclamation point. Whatever the emotion that they are feeling, they live it to the fullest!
Greeks may engage you in a conversation about politics however let them bring up the topic. They are well educated and will have a wide of range knowledge about the political issues. They use expansive arm and hand gestures when speaking. Physical contact is common, even amongst two friends who may be of the same gender.
Hugging, kissing on the cheek and walking arm in arm are all common. They will maintain strong eye contact when speaking.
While the Greeks may criticize aspects of their society or daily life (politics, traffic etc.) they do not appreciate the same criticisms being offered by outsiders.
First names are commonly used however, for higher business levels they may add a title such as Mr. or Mrs. before a first name as a sign of respect.
Greeks are great negotiators and their conversation style is skillful when negotiating. For foreigners coming from a more direct conversational style, the meandering style of the Greeks may be confusing at first. It is recommended that a local partner be found to assist in any negotiations. This is important not only for the legal issues, but also as the Greeks place great value in knowing who they are working with.
The OK sign is considered obscene in Greece and should be avoided. The open hand facing outward (the hand signal that is often used for “stop” in Europe and the US) is also considered offensive.
Welcome Topics
- Passing along a compliment, or showing interest in learning more about the impact of Greece in the world.
- Greece has so much history that anything historical is a welcome topic.
- Discussion about the great people and philosophers from Greece.
- The distinct Greek Cuisine and drink is always a good topic.
- Architecture, the progressive Greek cities, scenery, nature and the diversity of the country terrain.
Conversation to Avoid
- Politics can be a touchy subject for foreigners so unless they initiate the discussion, it is best to avoid this topic when you are first developing a relationship.
- Cyprus is also a touchy subject, as is the topic of Turkey, so both should be avoided if possible.
- Greeks are sensitive to people from larger countries that feel that they are more important based upon where they are from.
- Anything negative about their food or coffee.
- Greece is a very proud culture, so avoid criticism of anything pertaining to Greece or the Greek people.
