Macedonia: Asinta Business Etiquette Insight

Is your company looking to set up a new business in Macedonia?  Here are some useful business etiquette insights to help guide you in the right direction:

  • Macedonians are normally warm, polite and generally welcoming to foreigners. Always maintain eye contact when talking with someone, otherwise it may be considered rude and lacking in respect. They tend to speak fast and loudly with a lot of hand gestures and are direct in matters they consider to be of importance to them.
  • Developing good business relationships and networking are key to being successful in Macedonia. Trust in the individual is seen as more important than the company or products on offer.  If you want to make a good impression, be polite, courteous and a good listener.  Respect for Macedonian values and beliefs is very important so do your homework beforehand.
  • Business meetings tend to be formal and punctuality is appreciated, but not expected. People are greeted according to status; from the higher to the lower.  Women are always the first to be greeted, if present.  Meetings are primarily held for the purposes of information exchange as Macedonians like to ensure that all topics have been covered before a decision is made.  Decision making comes from the top of the company although a consensus with other senior people usually takes place.  Patience is required!

Do you have questions about doing business in Maceonia? Get in contact with Asinta Partner, MAI CEE, via their contact page to get your questions answered.