Business and Social 101: Turkey's Culture

Turkey's business is expanding and there are many opportunities to do business here. But, remember, relationships are very important in this Muslim country. Turks put great emphasis on relationships and friendships, so in order to do business with them, you would have to develop a friendly relationship with them first. In order to better assimilate into their culture, get to know their customs and etiquette. Win your way into their hearts with your charm, grace and knowledge of their lifestyles.

Most Turks are Sunni Muslims and roughly 80% of the population is Turkish and 20% are Kurdish. The women, are less conservative then other Muslim countries, so it perfectly all right to shake a women's hand as a greeting. Turks usually shake hands when meeting and departing and give kisses on the cheek to close friends. When kissing the hands of an elder, you would kiss their right hand and then place the forehead onto the hand. When introducing friends at a social event, Turks usually start with the person closest to them and work counterclockwise around the table.

When referring to a male, the Turk's custom is to call his name, followed by "bey." For females, Turks use their personal name followed by "hanim." Note that Turks put emphasis on professional titles such as Doctor and Professor. They even go as far as using professional titles when calling lawyers, "Avukat" or engineers, "Muhendis." Also, it is common for those who work in the service industry or those who provide a service (waiters, maids, secretaries, laborers) to call the people who they work for "efendim." This literally translates to "my master."

The Turks are very hospitable people who like to socialize. Make friendly conversation and ask about their children and they will be pleased. In addition, most people follow soccer religiously; as a result, a soccer conversation is a safe choice. Turks like to smoke and drink in between courses. Because of their hospitality, the host always pays when parties dine out. "Going Dutch" is practically unheard of in Turkey. And "fighting for the bill" is pointless (but a kind gesture) because the host will always pay. Instead, one should invite the host to another meal. For foreigners, it is best to tell the restaurant beforehand that you will be footing the bill and not your guest, no matter what. That way, with another meal, you would have another opportunity to build your relationship.

When doing business with Turks it is important to remember that relationships matter a great deal. They believe in doing business with someone they "know." Thurs, your first meeting would most likely be a social meeting than a business meeting. Business meetings should be scheduled by phone at least 1.5-2 weeks in advance. It is not a good idea to schedule a meeting during Ramadan, unless absolutely necessary. Be punctual and remember to begin your business meetings with some friendly small talk.

Most Turks give business gifts in forms of trips and dining. But when invited to someone's home, it is a nice gesture to bring some food or crafts from your homeland. Most people like to bring pastries, especially baklava.

Remember, doing business in Turkey is all about relations, relations, relations! People only trust friends, so be friendly, engaging, and sociable.