Give your expatriates the right start in their new workplace with our series of tips from cross-cultural consultant and trainer Eleonore Breukel. This month: Greece, where she lived for seven years.

Cultural background

Greece was once an influential nation. Alexander the Great (330 BC) acquired land as far east as the East Indies, and today is still seen as an important Greek hero. In 146 BC the Romans occupied Greece and stayed for several centuries. The country was part of the Byzantine civilisation until the Turks took over in 1453 AD, and Greece became part of the Ottoman Empire. Only in 1829 did they gain independence, becoming a constitutional monarchy. A military junta ruled from 1967 to 1974, when the new Democratic Republic of Greece was declared.

The strong influence of the different cultures is still found in today's daily life and reflected in the country's different architecture.

Greek mythology, with its many gods, is world-famous. Today 90 percent of the population belong to the Greek Orthodox Church, which is supported by the state.

The language

Greek is only spoken in Greece. However Greek words are found in many languages. Those who learnt ancient Greek at school can read modern Greek; nevertheless, the modern version of the language is very different from ancient Greek.

Doing business

In Greece one cannot do business without having a large network of relations in all sectors of society.

Business is done on a personal level. It is a continuous exchange of personal favours. Getting yourself introduced to business contacts via a Greek relation or friend may help to create trust.

Keep in mind that Greeks like to bargain. Do not enter negotiations with rock-bottom prices. Greeks are very generous; they will often take friends and associates out for lunch, dinner or a nightclub. When returning this invitation, organise beforehand with the restaurant to take care of the bill.

There is a strong hierarchy in companies, especially in government offices. The elderly are much respected for their wisdom.

Greeks are very proud of their past, having been so successful and influenced the world to the extent they did. For this reason, it is worthwhile having some knowledge of their history and mythology, as well as showing your appreciation for their architecture.

As official channels do not always function well Greeks have become good improvisers. Be flexible if things are not done the way you expected, and bear in mind that it is the results that are important.

How to address the Greeks

Greeks are very informal. Initially Greeks will address you by your last name; shortly switching to your first name. You might be called 'Kirie' John or 'Kiria' Joan, without the last name being used at all. (translation: Mr and Mrs). Each time Greeks meet they shake hands.

As a token of friendship a Greek may put his/her hand on your arm or slap you in a friendly way on the back. Their proximity to you is usually about a hand's length. Do not step away as that would be considered impolite.

How to communicate effectively

Clicking the tongue, raising the eyebrows and nodding the head upwards means 'no'.

The word 'nai' means 'yes' accompanied by a downward nod of the head.

Like the ancient Greek philosophers, the Greeks of today still have lengthy discussions on almost any subject in a very loud voice. These take place in the office, in the street and in restaurants.

Greeks expect you to enter the discussion and give your opinion. Be prepared that anything you say may cause a lengthy discussion, which is a positive token.

It could be said that the Greeks created drama. Hence, there is much drama in their daily lives.

Therefore, check carefully if a situation is really as serious as your Greek partners tell you it is, or if it is just 'a storm in a teacup'.

Greece suffered very much under Turkish occupation, so avoid any subject concerning Turkey. However, Greek membership of the EU is a popular topic, as they like to be seen as modern Europeans.

Women in business

Few women hold positions high in business. It is perfectly acceptable if a Greek man pays a woman compliments in the office or in the street, so a woman should accept a compliment with a smile.

In a meeting

Meetings may seem unstructured, loud and chaotic. Everyone speaks at the same time. In order to be heard people interrupt each other frequently, which is not seen as impolite. On the contrary if you do not interrupt how are you going to convince others of your point of view?

Keep your own notes during a meeting. Make sure at the end of the meeting that your points got across and were understood, by asking a question like: "Did I clearly understand that we agreed upon..."

When you make a presentation make sure that it is a glossy layout. Dropping names of important people you know may help you to gain trust. And double-check office opening times as Greeks usually take long lunch hours.

The concept of time

Greeks may be late for an appointment, but you are expected to be on time. In a business meeting much time may be spent on social talk and entertainment. Do not get impatient. Real business is often done at the dinner table or while drinking coffee in the sun on the terrace of a coffee shop.

In Greece people are able to do several things at the same time — ie you may find yourself in a situation where your Greek manager is talking to you, their secretary and someone else on the phone, all at the same time.

Dress codes

When you go to a business appointment dress well according to fashion. Your dress reflects your success in business as well as your good taste.

Socialising

When invited to a Greek home, bring sweets. A kilo of sweets or chocolates is much preferred above flowers.

Greeks love the family. Show great interest in the children and bring them a small toy.

Complimenting one another on dress, houses or furniture is a common practice.

When you go out, compliments on excellent Greek cooking and local wines are well received.