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GIFT GIVING IN AUSTRIA*
- Gift Giving Etiquette
BUSINESS GIFT GIVING
-
In general, gifts
are not casually exchanged in business.
-
However, in the
event that an Austrian presents you with a gift, you should have one or
more small presents with you, so that you can reciprocate immediately.
-
Your gift will be
opened in front of you, rather than in private, and you should do the same
if you receive something.
-
Gifts should be
moderate and unassuming. Books describing your hometown or country, a
local product [e.g. scotch or bourbon] or a local artifact [e.g. porcelain
or silverware] all make good gifts when exchanged in an office setting.
-
Perhaps as a remnant
of eastern influences, it is appropriate for trusted, close business
colleagues to give each other gifts at holiday-times or to celebrate the
completion of an important and successful business deal.
-
Suitable gifts
include brandies, spirits, or something that reflects your homeland or the
personal tastes and preferences of the recipient, as long as the gift is
of high quality and not normally obtainable in Austria.
PERSONAL GIFT GIVING
-
It is very unusual
for an outsider to be invited into an Austrian's home but, if you are, you
should go with gifts in hand for your host, his or her spouse and their
children.
-
A bottle of vintage
wine, [French] champagne [not German Sekt] or brandy would make a
good gift for your host and high-quality chocolates or a spray of
flowers--not chrysanthemums, white lilies or red roses--are
suitable gifts for your hostess.
-
Recommended gifts
for children might include confectionery, electronic gadgets or anything
foreign [and therefore 'cool'] depending on their age.
*Dray, Paul. Austria Business Etiquette -
Gift Giving. Executive Planet. 29 July 2004 <http://www.executiveplanet.com/business-culture-in/139447817140.html>. |
Above: The flag of Austria
Global Gift Guide
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Chocolate Globes
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Unique Art Glass - World Series
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Teastain World Gift Globe
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