Business culture in Romania

Romania is located in south-eastern Europe with a large population of over 22 million inhabitants. Romania is a hierarchical country where age and position are afforded a great deal of respect. Since joining the European Union in 2007 its business practices have undergone some change, but it is a country that still has its own code of etiquet.      

                                       

Communication

Romanians are generally direct about what they feel, but can be very indirect when talking about ideas and plans.  There are many cultural reasons for this. To really understand, it is a good idea to ask questions and tactfully ask for more information, at least up to a point.

Direct eye contact is preferred.  Some people could say that you are not listening if you are not making an eye contact, and get upset.

In a professional setting amongst colleagues, direct eye contact is acceptable and in most cases, expected.

Dress

If you are doing business with a partner is always to be good. Dressed designated In Romania this also applies. The man usually wears a dark suit with a white shirt, a tie and polished shoes. The woman should be dressed elegantly, Business suits, usually with a skirt and preferably with high heels.

Meetings

In Romania meetings are generally taken seriously and it’s best to be on time, lateness is not tolerated. It is common to greet the highest ranking person first.

Some small talk is usually expected.  It's best to allow the host to dictate the business discussion.

The main purposes of initial meetings are to get to know one another and discuss, not to always make decisions.  It's best to go with the flow and not impose your agenda too forcefully.

Contracts are seen as statements of intent rather than binding agreements. Note that decisions can be reversed and nothing is concrete when doing business in Romania.

sources:

http://www.kwintessential.co.uk

http://businessculture.org/eastern-europe/romania/business-etiquette/

http://rumaenien.um.dk/en/the-trade-council/tradecouncil-in-xx/the-romanian-business-culture/

http://www.thisisromania.com/learn-more-about-romania/