Business Directories in Europe

Using guides and business directories in Europe to learn proper European business etiquette and protocol
By Angela King, Freelance Writer Knowing about European business customs is critical to staying alive in today’s global economy.  Researching multiple commercial guides for Europe will help you in preparation for traveling abroad and in dealing with your European business and government contacts via phone, Internet or meetings in your US office. 

While understanding business protocol for Europe is important when dealing with your European counterparts from your home turf, it’s even more critical you are well-versed in business etiquette in Europe before traveling to any European country. Business travelers need to be familiar with Europe business customs and etiquette so as not to break any taboos or appear to fit the “typical American” stereotype of being slightly less polished or even rude and brusque. In your European business dealings, you should:

1. Seek training from European commercial guides and seminars to learn general rules of protocol.
   
2. Keep in mind that European business customs will not be the same from one country to the next, so you need to be aware of a wide range of European business protocol.
   
3. Understand how even the smallest thing like an inappropriately wrapped business gift or a common hand gesture can go against business etiquette in Europe.

Consult with trainers from business guides for Europe for help conducting business in Europe

Factors like dressing, demeanor and manners are more pronounced and necessary when dealing with European business people than they are in the US. While many American businesses lean toward "business-casual" in dress, interpersonal dealings and communications, being casual in business isn't customary in most European business situations.
Try:  Europublic provides a Communication and Public Awareness program to educate business people in communications and business dealings with European companies and governments. Europublic also provide a speakers bureau, writers bureau and trainers bureau as well as case studies for intercultural, institutional and private sector dealings. Minding Manners offers International Business Etiquette training for businessmen and businesswomen needing help with business and dining protocol and etiquette.

Familiarize yourself with the varied European business protocol and customs

Being mindful of the cultural differences and expectations when it comes to business dealings throughout the many European countries can be the make-or-break point for any business wishing to expand business partnerships and trade abroad.
Try:  TC World provides information about German business etiquette from the pecking order in making introductions and proper methods for addressing German people when greeting them. Kwintessential Cross Cultural Solutions provides business guides for Europe with a simple click on the country for which you need information.

Pay attention to the smallest gesture or basic rules in Europe business customs and etiquette

Knowing when to shake hands, use titles or first names and give gifts are all critical to your business dealings in Europe. Even something as seemingly insignificant as gift wrap on a business gift can come into play in how you are accepted in the European business world.
Try:  Business Etiquette provides a plethora of details on interviewing, business attire, phone manners, business correspondence and greeting methods including handshakes, using titles and other business skills. This site also discusses general social taboos, rules for gift giving and familiarity in addressing your European business contacts. Ravenworks will help you polish up your skills and style of professionalism to prove the American stereotype wrong. This site provides a guide to European business etiquette for global business strategies.  

• Invest in a good European country commercial guide or subscribe to such a service online so you can have access to this information to refresh your memory before your next European business dealing.