There are rules of behaviour in Italy but rather than sticking rigidly to these, Italians respect politeness and being considerate. It is important to use your body language to indicate friendship and openness. Always shake hands with new acquaintances. Sometimes on a subsequent meeting you might find you are embraced. Do not back away as this will be interpreted as a rejection of friendship.
Address people with the formal ‘you’ form of the verb until you are invited by your acquaintance to call him or her by the informal form. Titles are important too. Signor and Signora are used for most people, or Dottore or Dottoressa, which is used for anyone who has a university degree (even a bachelor’s degree).
Personal appearance is very important. Italians are obsessed by fashion and are very proud of their fashion houses, and they judge new acquaintances by the way that they present themselves.
Hospitality is also crucial in Italian business. If you want to discuss business, an invitation to lunch or dinner will be expected and the host always pays for his/her guests.
Do not try to rush negotiations. You will be expected to indulge in some small talk, for example on food, drink or sport, before entering discussions on the actual topic of the meeting.
