Summary

	Family and friends are important in Greece.
	Certain American practices are unacceptable.

Greece is a land of opposites. For every statement we make about Greek behavior, there is an equally true statement to the contrary. Geographically at the crossroads between the east and west, Greece is deeply rooted in antiquity and culture, yet thriving in the modern world.

A Family Affair

Family and friends are everything; the group with which you are associated requires absolute loyalty. Nothing can be accomplished in Greece without the consensus of others, requiring the building of trust and personal relationships in business before any real tasks are accomplished. However, one's individual personality (philotimo, or self-pride) must be respected.

It's Greek to Me

You might want to pull out the old fraternity or sorority Greek alphabet if you don't speak the language, so you will at least be able to identify the letters you'll see when you visit. Many Greeks in business speak some English; most Greeks on the street do not.

Keereeoss (Mr.) and Keereeah (Mrs.) plus the family name are a must when introduced to anyone. You will typically be introduced to older people and men first, women second. Follow this protocol when introducing yourself.

Shake hands with everyone individually in a group before departing. Kissing is a common greeting once there is a familiar relationship. Eye contact during the introduction is important -- as long as the individual is addressing you, maintain eye contact.

Other Gestures to Watch For

The US "OK" sign with thumb and forefinger may be considered obscene. As with other eastern Mediterranean cultures, nodding the head upward means no (Be careful, it looks somewhat like the western nod for yes.), often accompanied with a slight bearing of the teeth (do not misinterpret this as a smile), and a small clicking sound with the tongue.

Never raise an open palm -- to raise your hand with an open palm at face level is an insult. The cafes and market are places where people meet and talk. Be ready to meet people, bargain and have a coffee. Do not refuse such an opportunity.

Dishing and Dining

Greeks are great hosts and will offer you a feast of delicious food. If you don't want seconds, leave a little on your plate. If you don't like one particular food, ask for seconds of the kind you do like to compliment the hostess.

The most common toast is kalymata, to your health. Wine is common at lunch and dinner. If you are drinking ouzo, be sure to take small sips (although men will be measured by their ability to drain a glass in one shot). The more you drink, the more you will be offered. If you don't want to drink anymore, leave your glass more than half full.

As for dining, Greeks do not really throw dinnerware against the wall, nor do they regularly dash glasses into the fireplace. Like all continentals, Greeks do not switch knives and forks as Americans do. The knife remains in the right hand, and the fork remains in the left. Hands should be visible above the table.

Getting Down to Business

It is typically acceptable to come to meetings one half-hour late, although beginners in Greece should arrive on time but be prepared to wait. Social events usually begin at least an hour late and have no set ending time.

Meetings are usually vibrant, and everyone is expected to participate. Many people will be speaking at once, and questions are common. Interruptions, even in presentations, should be expected.

The leader is expected to provide a way of rallying the divergent opinions to one cause. Greeks respect someone who comes to them with already established knowledge and experience, although they will rarely take it at face value. They will usually test it and demand proof. You will be expected to bargain, and bargain hard.

Plan your meetings as carefully and well in advance as you can, but expect changes. Never do anything to cause your Greek colleagues to lose face in front of their counterparts. Do everything you can to show how your proposal enhances their philotimo. Doing business in Greece means getting to know the country and its people, one by one. Take the time to savor and respect their lives, their achievements and their world.