Module 1 : Understanding cultural differences

1. Intercultural awareness : the key to success in international business

• Taking stock of one's own cultural baggage
• The basics of effective intercultural management
• Identifying and going beyond cultural stereotypes

2. Key aspects of Greek culture

• A land sandwiched between continents and archipelagos.
• The heritage of ancient philosophy. The importance of the orthodox religion.
• The urban and rural differences of a homogenous people
• Long-standing traditions and a modernistic society 
• The recent renaissance of Greek democracy
• Privatisations and the black economy
• The educational system

3. The impact of values and behaviour patterns on professional dealings and relationships

• Family life in Greece: the cornerstone of Greek society.  The role of women and children
• The “logos” or the importance of politics.  The prevalence of superstition.
• A unique relationship to time.
• An ambiguous view of authority and hierarchies
• Honour, pride, discipline and organisation

4. The Greek corporate world

• The importance of public companies.
• "Afendikos" or the influence of the family within the company
• "Effendikos": Greek company managers and attitudes to responsibility
• A hard-working people

Module 2 : Succeeding in work with the Greeks

1. Effective communication with the Greeks

• Modernity and “katharevoussa”: the fundamental aspects of the Greek language
• Choosing the right interpreter
• The emphasis on direct communication.  Understanding the meaning of gestures 
• Informal dealings and relationships

2. Adapting your working methods

• The combination of individualism and team working. 
• The resourcefulness of the Greeks.
• Building trust and confidence: an emphasis on the personal touch and an ability to listen
• Highlighting common interests. Dealing with touchy or sensitive people
• Effective conflict resolution: seeking consensus
• Pitfalls to be avoided

3. Successful meetings and negotiations with the Greeks

• Fully involving partners.  Actively listening to others’ opinions
• Presenting your case: the joys of discussion
• Time and deadline management
• Attitudes to contracts and their implications.  Nothing is ever final

4. Final handy tips

• Caution, patience and humility
• Protocol and etiquette
• Social standards, gifts, business cards, dress code, etc
• Sensitive subjects: politics, history, religion
• Humour: a double-edged sword