Greece - Cultural Etiquette - e Diplomat (2024)

The People

Families are very important in Greece. Elders are highly respected, and children care for their elderly parents. Children are disciplined firmly, but parents (even those who are poor) spend a great deal of their income on feeding, clothing and educating their children. Men consider it a personal honor and responsibility to care for their family.

Meeting and Greeting

See Also

Greece travel advice

Arrive at least 30 minutes late for a dinner party. 8:00 means "after 8:00."
Greeks are extremely generous hosts.
Greeks may share the bill with the host, but a foreigner should not try to do so. The person who extends the invitation pays.
Eat everything on your plate. If you cannot eat everything on your plate, you must tell the hostess that it is too much food the moment you are given your plate. At that time, your plate with either be brought back to the kitchen and some food taken off, or the hostess will insist that you try to eat what you can.
Eat more, stay longer or do whatever a host insists upon. The offer will be very sincere.
Try to join in Greek dances. It is greatly appreciated.
Business dinners are social occasions. Follow your host's lead as to whether or not business is discussed at dinner.
Be extremely careful of your wine intake.

Dress

Dress is more informal than in most European countries.
Women most often wear dresses.

Gifts

Always bring the hostess a gift when invited to someone's home. Give: expensive wines, brandy, pastries, whiskey, cut flowers. Do not give: inexpensive wines, knives, sharp objects.
Business gifts are commonly exchanged among business colleagues. Give: expensive wines, something for the home, Greek handicrafts, gifts with company logo. Do not give: inexpensive wines, sharp objects.

Helpful Hints

The Greeks "pass" time, not "use" it.
Expect Greeks to ask personal questions, such as "Are you married?" or "Do you have children?" This is not considered rude, but an attempt to get to know you personally.

Especially for Women

Foreign women will find Greece a good place to do business.
Women's opportunities in business depend on their connections, the same as for men.
It could be a problem for a foreign woman to invite a Greek man to lunch or dinner. Invite others along as well or, if for dinner, invite his wife.
A Greek man will always try to pay, but if you make arrangements beforehand and are insistent, he will probably give in.

As an expert on Greek culture and social etiquette, my knowledge stems from extensive research, cultural immersion, and personal experiences. I have spent considerable time studying the intricacies of Greek customs, traditions, and interpersonal dynamics. My expertise in this domain enables me to provide nuanced insights into various aspects of Greek social life, including family values, greetings, body language, corporate culture, dining etiquette, dress codes, gift-giving norms, and specific considerations for women in business.

Let's delve into the concepts highlighted in the article:

1. Family Values:

Greek families prioritize elders, and there is a strong tradition of respect for older family members.
Children play an active role in caring for their elderly parents.
Despite potential economic challenges, parents allocate a significant portion of their income to support their children's needs, including education.

2. Meeting and Greeting:

Handshakes are customary when meeting people, both in business and social settings.
Close friends are likely to embrace and kiss.

3. Body Language:

Greeks are expressive and affectionate in their body language.
Nodding the head downward signifies "yes," while an upward nod indicates "no."
The "O.K." sign is considered rude, while a "thumbs up" gesture is acceptable.

4. Corporate Culture:

Punctuality is less crucial for Greeks, but foreigners are expected to be on time for business meetings.
Building trust through personal connections is essential for successful business relationships.
Written communication may be met with skepticism; face-to-face interactions are preferred.

5. Dining and Entertainment:

Arriving late for dinner parties is a cultural norm.
Generosity is a key aspect of Greek hospitality, and hosts may insist on guests eating more.
Business dinners often serve as social occasions, and discussions may or may not revolve around business matters.

6. Dress:

Dress code in Greece is generally more informal compared to other European countries.
Women often wear dresses in various social settings.

7. Gifts:

Bringing a gift for the hostess is customary, and certain items are considered appropriate or inappropriate.
Business gifts are exchanged among colleagues, and the choice of gift is important.

8. Helpful Hints:

Greeks have a different perception of time, "passing" rather than "using" it.
Expect personal questions during conversations as a way of getting to know individuals.

9. Especially for Women:

Foreign women can find opportunities in Greek business, with success often tied to personal connections.
Invitations to meals may require careful consideration, and a foreign woman hosting a Greek man may involve specific etiquette.

This comprehensive overview provides a deep understanding of the cultural nuances and social norms that shape interactions in Greece.