Source: World Bank
Initial Meetings
Business in Croatia is formal and consequently initially reserved. Once a relationship develops this will change. Initially at least:
. Use the handshake with eye contact and a smile.
. Wait for a woman to extend her hand first.
. Greet the person with the appropriate salutation for the time of day.
. Use professional business titles.
. Business cards are exchanged without formal ritual.
. Include titles and professional qualifications on business cards.
. Although not a absolutely necessary having one side of your business card translated into Croatian shows some thought.
Communication Style
Direct and straightforward talk is valued in Croatia, however there is also an emphasis on choosing your words correctly and being diplomatic so as not to cause upset. Often, the level of the relationship will determine how direct someone is or can be. For newly established relationships diplomacy is key so you may find people are not always willing to speak their minds.
Business Meetings
Meeting schedules are not very rigid in Croatia. There may be an agenda but it serves more as a guideline for the discussion than anything else.
. Be prepared for lengthy meetings. People may go off on tangents plus time is never a factor to bring a meeting to a close.
. There may be some small talk at the beginning of meetings. This would become more important as the relationship develops. Never jump straight into business as this may come across as rude.
. Initially at least, be sure to temper your communication style if you are used to being quite direct. Building the relationship is more important initially and should be focused upon.
