Turkey has many customs and traditions which are based on Muslim religion. It’s important to respect the people and their beliefs. Here is a guide to customs and etiquette of Turkey.
The Turkish are generally more formal and traditional in their dealings with people than North Americans, Australians, and New Zealanders, according to " Turkish Culture and Customs."
Body Language
One the first things you may notice when you arrive in Turkey is the body language of the people. Depending on what country or culture you come from, you may find some of the gestures funny or strange. You may even wonder what is being conveyed by the people who are communicating with each other or with you. Here are a few gestures to watch for:
- It is common to see two men walking down the street holding hands or walking arm and arm.
- If someone shakes their head sideways, this means that they do not understand.
- When greeting one another, the Turkish will kiss each other on both cheeks instead of shaking hands.
Meeting and Greeting
If you are attending a business meeting or social gathering, you should shake hands with the elders and shake hands with everyone in the room. When leaving the business meeting or social gathering, it is common to shake hands with everyone when leaving. It is also a common custom for Turkish men and women to cheek-kiss one another.
Business Attire
- When dressing for business meetings and appointments, you should dress conservatively.
- During the summer it is very hot and humid. In cities such as Istanbul, Izmir, and Ankara it is acceptable to wear a shirt, pants, and in some cases it is acceptable for men not to wear a tie.
- Outside of the larger cities and Eastern Turkey, men and women dress more conservatively. Women should avoid wear tight fitting clothing and avoid exposing their arms and legs.
Gift Giving
When giving gifts in Turkey, here are a few points to keep in mind:
- Bring a gift from your home country such as food or crafts.
- Thinking of giving alcohol as a gift? You should keep in mind that Turkey is a Muslim country, not everyone drinks alcohol.
- You may also give pastries or home decor.
- You may give flowers such as roses or carnations.
- Don’t wait until later to open your gift.
Business Meetings and Appointments
- Don’t discuss business right away. The initial appointment is an opportunity to get to know each other. Appropriate topics to discuss include soccer, family, and Turkish history. However, you should avoid discussing politics.
- Make sure that handouts are printed in both English and Turkish.
- Make sure that you maintain eye contact; this is considered a sign of honesty in Turkish culture.
- When exchanging business cards, use both hands. You should also make sure that one side of your business cards is printed in Turkish.
- Make sure that you are on time. If you think that you are going to be late, call and give the person with whom you are meeting with an explanation.
Traveling to a different country or experiencing a new culture for the first time can be overwhelming. Taking the time to develop an understanding of the country and its culture can help you to avoid offending others. Visitors should keep in mind that Turkey ‘s customs and traditions are based on Muslim beliefs. Taking time to familiarize oneself about the culture of Turkey can only lead to a better business experience.
Sources:
- "Turkish Etiquette Tips." Vayama. ( Accessed May 3, 2011).
- "Turkish Culture and Customs." Turkey Travel Planner. (Accessed June 1, 2011).
- "Turkey." E Diplomat. (Accessed June 2, 2011).
- "Turkey-Turkish Language, Culture , Customs, and Etiquette." Kwintessential. (Accessed June 6, 2011).
