Cultura de negocios en Europa

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- It is very difficult to set an appointment with a director general, especially in Paris, as they commit themselves to the last moment.

- The French have a very formal style, but even so is the delay in responding to business letters. They dress elegantly, shake hands with everyone when they arrive and leave. It may be many years before they call you by their proper name.

- Employers in Germany always use the "gentleman" followed by the surname or the title "Doctor". It is very badly seen to omit a surname or title and it is usual to shake hands when arriving and saying goodbye. (Similar to France). With regard to lunch is usually done in the building of the company. You are not expected to invite your German contacts to eat in your own country.

- In the Netherlands Most entrepreneurs speak two of the three official languages (French, Flemish and German).

- In Luxembourg, the majority speak French, German and English.

- The open, accessible and tolerant attitude in Belgium is forgotten by people who are not punctual. As for the correspondence, the Belgians prefer the telephone and the fax.

For the Belgians the beer is just as important as for the French wine. Invitations to homes are not common.

- Spaniards have the habit of setting meetings with little anticipation and punctuality is absent.

- In Greece for punctuality it is advisable to arrive on time. As for sincerity, the Greeks are so sincere in business that they can be mistaken for bad manners.

- For meetings in Ireland it is customary to dress smartly, shake hands when you arrive and say goodbye and be formal in the deal. However, the formality soon disappears and they will look like old friends.

In general, executives are reputed to be a little believed, which is often nothing more than trust in their business group. It would not be wise to respond aggressively if it is to achieve a lasting relationship.