Business etiquette

How to do business in the Czech Republic

Business etiquette

When doing business in the Czech Republic, you will feel some differences between generations. The older generation usually enjoys more authority. The younger generation is widely accustomed to speaking in English.

Because of the Czech history, Czech people are in general mistrustful. It is their way to avoid the unknown.

Reserved and impersonal approach

Czechs are polite, and their communication is formal and indirect. That means that they stress the use of the status titles in both verbal and written use, e.g. 'Mr' or 'Mrs', 'Dr', etc. You should not use their first name without permission, otherwise it may be considered offensive.

As Czechs are non-confrontational, they probably will not say a direct 'no' to your proposal, instead they will prefer a detailed analysis of provided figures. Then, the decision making process is rather slow, as they stick to rules and regulations, and plan everything carefully.

Czech people highly value their privacy. They tend to separate business and personal life. Close personal contact should be avoided in business. Establishing relationships with colleagues at work is undertaken with caution, and they are formed after a significant length of time.

How to deal with mistrust

The best way to deal with the Czech reserved nature is to demonstrate a professional approach. Always deliver what you promised. Be punctual and make your appointments in advance. Prepare all the information prior to the meeting, so that during the meeting you can go into the details.

Scheduling a meeting

Avoid arranging your meetings on Friday afternoons. Many Czechs have already made their plans to spend the extended weekend at their vacation houses. Also, be careful during the Czech summer vacations, as Czech companies usually close during the months of July and August.

During the meeting

Businessmen usually wear suits. You can make a good impression by handing your business partner a business card in your introduction. The meeting can start with small talk, then the inviting party changes the conversation to business.

When seated, do not cross your legs by resting one ankle upon the knee. Avoid talking to people with your hands in your pockets or while chewing gum.

And a final piece of good advice: If you have a cold, do not sniff, as it is considered very bad manners. On the other side, blowing your nose in public is perfectly acceptable. Use paper tissues.

Further reading

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