Business Etiquette In Europe
Curb your gesturesCracking your knuckles in Belgium is considered obscene. When you're in another country, it's always wise to limit your fidgeting and never assume that domestic gestures carry their meanings overseas. During your presentation, if a Frenchman gives you the okay sign, it means "useless." The gesture you'd rather see is a thumbs-up.
Drink appropriatelyEnjoy the local brews, but keep your wits about you. Belgian beer is stronger than in North America, and many business relationships have been damaged by over-imbibing in a loud and lively brauhaus in Germany or bierkeller in Austria.
Watch out for the ouzo in Greece. Business is often discussed in England over a pint (or two or three) of ale at a pub, generally referred to as "the local." Wine is standard at lunch and dinner in France and Italy, and will likely be served without consultation. Do not refuse it and risk causing offense; just take an occasional sip.
Making a toastYour European host will always make the first toast. Raise your glass and reciprocate by saying "skal" in Copenhagen, "prost" in Dusseldorf or Vienna, "sant" in Paris or Geneva, and "salute" in Venice. Make eye contact with each person at the table before taking a sip. The Swiss clink glasses with everyone after a toast. Reply with a toast of thanks at the end of the meal.
Foot the billIn Denmark, you may be invited to an evening meal at someone's home. If so, bring along flowers or local chocolates as a token of thanks. In other parts of Europe, dinner with business associates is generally restricted to restaurants, where the host will quietly pay the tab. It's considered very bad form to fight over the bill, particularly in Germany.
It is quite possible, however, that a German server might ask "zusammen?", meaning "Is this one bill?", and your associate will respond that it's separate checks. So be prepared to pay your own way — being asked if you are ready to get something to eat is not the same as being invited as a guest.
And what about the expression "Going Dutch?" Well, it's a dated British term used to slander the Dutch. Splitting the bill is, in fact, not common practice in the Netherlands, so don't joke about it.
Keep an open palateIn Europe, good food and drink in a congenial atmosphere are considered very important. Enjoy the local delicacies. Savor the mussels and chips in Brussels, and the schnitzel in Vienna. Mention any food allergies or dietary restrictions in advance of a meal, not after it arrives at the table. If the meal has been pre-planned and ordered in advance, which is quite customary in Germany, you risk causing embarrassment to yourself and your hosts.
Mind your mannersNever rest your hands in your lap in Italy, Switzerland, Belgium, or Austria. Keep your hands above the table, but your elbows off. In German and Dutch restaurants, don't eat with your fingers. No matter how much meat is still on the bone, don't pick it up and gnaw on it. In Austria, use your fork to cut your food, including meat, whenever possible. Using a knife is insulting, as it implies the food is tough.
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