Business Meetings In Poland
A business meeting in Poland is like a typical business meeting anywhere in Europe with a few cultural differences and points to note.
When you go to a meeting with the company for the first time in Poland, the meeting establishes your image. Because you can never make a second first impression, it is appropriate that plan how you will set your image.
First consider your business dress. It is probably appropriate that you wear a tie. Depending on the weather a coat may or may not be appropriate. After you have visited the company, you can adjust your level of dress as you see fit. But it is best to overdress.
Be sure to have your business cards available and present them early in the meeting. If you are in Poland to sell your product, it is appropriate that you have business cards printed with English on one side and Polish on the other.
If you're coming to Poland we recommend that you have a translator or guide. You can have that person get the business cards printed in advance for you so that when you come in country they are ready.
If you want to provide information to a company, English is generally fine.
But if you want the document widely and often read, and if you want to create a good impression, prior to your trip to Poland, have the materials translated into Polish. If your brochures are in color and in English or another language, there is no need to translate and have them reprinted. Simply have an addendum in black-and-white with the text translated.
Expect to be offered coffee at the meeting. Go to the section on food to understand the difference in coffee. Avoid embarrassment at a meeting because you find that Polish coffee does not suit your taste.
The meeting table is likely to have a plate of cookies available. And sometime alcohol.
If you are driving do know the restrictions on alcohol that are discussed in the food section. Don't be afraid to decline alcohol. Especially the vodka. It can give a kick if you are not used to it.
