GROUP 5: TURKEY

Bernido, Danaila Andre Ysabel

Gubalane, Fernan
Mahinay, Rhain
Tabanag, Steffi
Tan, Herdreth Meidel

Face-to-face communication

As personal relationships are very important for Turks, a number of verbal and non-verbal
communication habits should be considered when doing business in Turkey.

Non-verbal Communication

 People greet each other by shaking hands or by kissing on both cheeks.

 It is less appropriate to touch a person of the opposite gender.
 When an elderly person enters a room, it is expected that you will stand up in order to greet
them.
 Crossing your arms or putting your hands in your pockets while facing or talking to someone is
impolite.
 Tipping your head forward means ‘yes’, but lifting your head backwards and raising your
eyebrows means ‘no’
 Staring is common among the Turkish people, so don’t be concerned if you are stared at.
 It is unfriendly to step backwards if a Turk is standing close to you, as they tend to stand quite
close when speaking.
 Body language: Avoid standing with your hands on your hips or in your pockets, especially when
talking to those of a higher status or older than yourself.
 It is important to maintain direct eye contact while speaking,as a sign of sincerity.
 The use of hand gestures and facial expressions in conversation is very common.
 lack of an emotional response will often be viewed as a lack of interest in the issues which are
being discussed.

Verbal Communication

 When communicating with Turkish people first impressions are important. So, a good way to
make a good first impression is to speak highly of Turkey, its natural resources, people,
geographic importance and your personal experiences as a visitor. Showing interest and
excitement at tasting the local foods and demonstrating knowledge of the language will also
make a good impression.

 It is best to avoid speaking about religion and politics during the initial meetings. These are
highly sensitive topics that require local knowledge and an appreciation for the views of your
host. The wearing of the traditional Muslim headscarf (hijab) is also a controversial topic in
Turkey that should be avoided.
  Humour is greatly appreciated, although any jokes should be tempered with respect and
consideration for your business partners.
Communication styles/strategies in a business setting

During meetings

 You should arrive punctually.

 Often Turks will not hand out a business card unless they are confident that they want to
establish a business relationship.
 It is considered rude to hurry people to get to the purpose of the meeting
 Avoid scheduling meetings during Ramadan or the Turkish summer (July/August).
 Turkish tend to take business associates out for meals instead. It is impolite to decline a gesture
to dine out.
Negotiating

 You should emphasize a win-win scenario and maintain a positive attitude throughout
 Avoid using the threat of tight deadlines or high-pressure tactics. The Turkish can reverse the
pressure by conceding that they can’t meet your demands and threaten to cancel the deal
altogether. It is also unwise to start with your best offer to pressure them.

References

https://www.worldbusinessculture.com/country-profiles/turkey/culture/communication-
styles/

https://businessculture.org/southern-europe/business-culture-in-turkey/business-
communication-in-turkey/

https://culturalatlas.sbs.com.au/turkish-culture/business-culture-924aa7ed-c037-4fd7-
8a9b-d3e3c7a30cce#business-culture-924aa7ed-c037-4fd7-8a9b-d3e3c7a30cce