Bosnia & Herzegovina: Asinta Business Etiquette Insight

Intending to conduct new business in Bosnia & Herzegovina?  We offer the following business etiquette tips to help smooth the way:

  • Bosnians are generally hospitable and welcoming and can be animated and expressive when conversing. Be prepared for direct questions which may be considered of a personal nature, i.e. salary, age etc.  This is quite normal, so do not take offence.  Always try and maintain direct eye contact as this is considered a sign of honesty and good intentions.
  • You may need to consider an interpreter, particularly if meeting with elder people. Punctuality is expected for meetings as well as smart, appropriate and fashionable business attire; clean shoes are a must.  Bosnians tend to judge people on how they dress! Never refuse offers of food or drink as this is considered rude.
  • Bosnians prefer to do business with people they know well so business friendships are highly valued. You should spend time developing this relationship and be patient as Bosnians like to have everything explained and clarified in fine detail before making a decision.  Decisions tend to be made from the top down.

Do you have questions regarding employee benefits in Bosnia & Herzegovina? Get in contact with Asinta’s Partner in the region, MAI-CEE, via their contact page today to get the conversation started.