Presentation on Russian Culture

Submitted by Dhrubaji Mandal

Introduction• Russian Domain includes Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, Georgia, and Armenia

(all were part of the U.S.S.R.)• Russia is the largest country (in land area) on Earth• Rich in resources, but has one of the harshest climates; he average winter

temperature is rarely below −20°C (-4°F)• The Russian Domain has had extremely rapid political and economic

change since 1990• From centrally planned economy to capitalism & from authoritarian

dictatorship to democracy• Region’s economy is weak; commitment to democracy uncertain,

nationalist movements threaten stability

Russian culture - key concepts and values

• Collectivism Cultural anthropologists believe that Russia’s strong communal bond comes from the large

amount of cooperation that must be demonstrated to survive in such a cold climate.

• EgalitarianismEgalitarianism is an important social philosophy that strives for equal treatment of people

through all avenues, may they be pay benefits or social standing. In the business realm, this translates to equal opportunity, reciprocity, and mutual advantages.

• Dusha (soul)Dusha is based around idea of mutual understanding and emotion.

Structure and hierarchy in Russian companies

• The hierarchical structure in Russian business practices means that the decision makers higher up have authority over their subordinates; however when it comes to decision-making, the collective good is most often at the top of this list. There is still a strong recognition of the power structure and the respect of the hierarchy is central for smooth business operations.

• Personal space is not important in Russia; it is said that there is no word for “privacy” in the Russian language.

• Bodily contact during the business meetings is considered to be a good sign of initializations.

Working practices in Russia

Working practices in Russia – A stereotype

• The Russians attitude to time means that a few minutes delay on their part is of little importance. However, they will expect you to be punctual.

• Faxes and emails are the best way to communicate in Russia, as the post can often be unreliable. It is customary before making a trip to Russia to inform the prospective company of your intended business proposals and objectives.

• Paperwork and putting pen to paper is an essential part of all working practices in Russia. In general, they have little faith in unsigned documents.

GENDER ASPECTS

• Women usually do not hold high positions in the Russian Business culture.

• There are more women in business education then in business.

• Foreign businesswomen sometimes face adversity from the male-dominated Russian business culture.

ATTITUDE TOWARDS FOREIGN PARTNERS

• The first meeting is usually just a formality-a time to assess the credibility of you and your company.

• Russians can sometimes place a great deal of confidence in your professional competence and experience; very high expectations and demands.

• Russian business people are open-minded to new ideas, especially from western business culture

• Russian negotiators could make minor concessions and ask for major ones in return.

BUSINESS DRESS CODE

• Old Russian proverb--“one meet you depending on how you're dressed and say good bye depending on how wise you seem to be”

• Russian businesspeople pay a lot of attention to how they are dressed. Russian people in general probably spend more money from their family budget on clothing then any other nation in the world.

Making appointments

• Persistence and patience are essential. Once your appointment is scheduled, do everything you can to avoid cancellation.

• Don't schedule your trip to Russia near the end of July or during the month of August- this is the time of year many people take their vacations.

• Allow plenty of time for each appointment.

• Business day is usually 9:00 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Friday and some Saturday mornings.

Conversation

• Visitors should try to speak in a calm, moderate, tone of voice at all times.

• Your Russian colleagues will be delighted if you make the effort to speak even a few sentences of their language.

• Russians are sometimes very careful about what they say, speaking metaphorically, symbolically, and perhaps even cryptically.

• Bringing up the subject of Russian culture and history is appreciated.

• Compliments - with caution, they may cause a feeling of misplaced obligation. (admiring a decorative object, your hosts may insist that you take it).

Business practices in Russia

• Business cards are essential. If possible, ensure that one side is printed in Russian and one side in English.

• Presentations should be straightforward and comprehensible.

• Although many principal concerns are discussed in an informal environment final negotiations will be conducted in the office.

• Generally, when beginning a meeting, the head of the organization will open the discussion and introductions should then be made in order of importance.

MEALS AND BUSINESS ETIQUETTE

• The business breakfast is not a part of Russian business culture.

• Business dining is getting more and more popular -is generally taken as a time for “sealing” a deal.

• The center seats are reserved for the most senior officials.

• Begin eating only after somebody says a toast. Toasting is a very important part of dining.

SOME GENERAL FEATURES

• The handshake is common. • Eye contact is very important, must be maintained as long as the

individual is addressing you. • Smoking in public places is still a common occurrence, although

some restrictions are slowly imposed. • Wearing your coat and/or winter boots in theatres, office buildings,

universities or similar public spaces is considered unacceptable. • partake in small talk that involves talk of family and personal

matters, before dealing with business• Knock before entering an office • Close the door behind you, when leaving an office

SOME GENERAL FEATURES (contd)

• Supply beverages and snacks during business meetings • Bring small gifts for the children of a home you visit • DON'T praise or reward anyone in public as it may be viewed with

suspicion or cause envy and jealousy. Remember the collective rules over the individual.

• Do not Use a restaurant as a place for doing business--it's for celebration

--- Thank You ---