When in Rome do as the Romans do

• Always shake hands when meeting and departing.
• Do not use first names unless asked to do so.
• Anyone you even suspect has graduated from university should be called “dottore” or “dottoressa”.
• Italians who are familiar with each other will exchange kisses on the cheek.
• Italians in the north are quite reserved, while those in the south are more expansive.
• Effective communication and successful business in Italy revolves around personal relationships and trust.
• A good business relationship is often built over the dinner table, where family, art, music or football is discussed.
• Italians do not like to talk about how much they earn. It would be considered impolite.
• A good relationship with one local contact opens up access to their network.