Member Article

Doing Business in Istanbul – Let’s talk Turkey

Istanbul – ancient Constantinople – is literally at the crossroads of the world. It is where East meets West and North meets South. The Bosporus both divides and connects Asia with Europe at this most beautiful of cities. From the ancient cobblestone streets and coffee shops to the morning call to prayer which can be heard everywhere every morning, you cannot escape the uniqueness of this place. From its political complexities to its relationship with its neighbors, there is truly no other destination quite like Turkey.

Doing business here is equally unique. You will not find this culture at all like New York or London. They say, “Money talks.” But here, it speaks Turkish. Here are a few tips to make the most out of a business trip here.

Learn some Turkish

Outside the major metropolitan centers, few people speak English. Knowing a few phrases and how to ask directions will get you far. Turkish uses a Latin alphabet and is pronounced like it is spelled. There are a few unique sounds to the language, but it is truly not difficult. It is an agglutinate language – which means that, unlike English, it sticks modifiers onto the end of words instead of putting them in front – but it is completely logical.

The Turks are very impressed and delighted whenever a foreigner tries to use their language, so a little effort in this area will get you a boatload of good will.

Eat in Moderation

If you are traveling to the Dalaman Region, consider the Marmaris Hotel, located next to a quaint village on beautiful little bay. Turkish food is rich and flavorful, but if you overdo it, you will not have the energy to venture outside and enjoy the sights. Not only is the food rich and plentiful, they usually top it off with something dizzyingly sweet like baklava.

The trick is to take just a spoonful of each course when eating in the traditional style of mezes, which are small plates of hummus, eggplant and grape leaves. Any business meal is going to swamp you with choices, and you won’t want to miss out or offend your hosts. Be forewarned.

Dress for Respect

A business suit is always appropriate. The Turks like wide ties with ridiculously wide knots, but you don’t need to imitate their style. Just remember to dress up a notch higher than you’d expect to in London or New York.

For women, you don’t need to fear that this ostensibly Muslim country will ignore you or have you arrested for not wearing a head covering. Nevertheless, a scarf is a good idea and shows respect. You may be invited to visit a mosque, so be advised that longer sleeves and covered legs is expected along with a head scarf.

Each city and region has its own reputation. Istanbul feels Old World. Ankara, the capital, has an immense bureaucracy. You can still feel the Greek influence in Izmir. Be sensitive to the unique culture in each place you go in Turkey.

Culture

It would be a mistake to think of Turkey as Muslim country. It is a secular state with a majority Muslim population. Religion and state are separate and most Turks are quite liberal and tolerant.

That said, honor is a major element of Turkish culture. This shows in the way they offer hospitality, deal with direct comments, offering and accepting gifts. Be very careful about talking politics. Know which issues are sensitive and be aware that each person may have a completely different opinion on potentially volatile subjects.

Follow the lead of your hosts, use a little Turkish, and smile.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Nataliya Stefanus .