Kwintessentials...

As a result of gaining more cultural awareness since I came here, I take a lot more interest in cultural difference, cultural communication, cultural competence. Since I quite lack the opportunity of experiencing it in a face-to-face manner, I go on the internet and thus I came across this website. It teaches people and especially business people basic things about how to behave in different countries and how to relate to the specific cultural background. Here are some interesting facts:

Romania
The individual derives a social network and assistance in times of need from their family.

They are generally shy and quiet when you first meet and admire modesty and humility in themselves and others.

(Dining etiquette) Expect to be offered second and even third helpings. You will have to insist that you cannot eat any more, as refusals are seen as good manners and are not taken seriously.

Businesspeople are often unavailable during the two weeks before and after Christmas and the week before and after Easter.

Most decisions require several layers of approval. At times it may appear that no one wants to accept responsibility for making the decision. It may take several visits to accomplish a simple task.

Hungary
If you ever feel you are being asked personal questions, this is simply meant as part of the getting-to-know-you process. Hungarians will even enjoy sharing details of their romantic life with you!

Deals in Hungary cannot be finalized without a lot of eating, drinking and entertaining.

USA
Time is Money. The country that coined the phrase obviously lives the phrase. In America, time is a very important commodity. People 'save' time and 'spend' time as if it were money in the bank. Americans ascribe personality characteristics and values based on how people use time.

Individualism is prized, and this is reflected in the family unit. People are proud of their individual accomplishments, initiative and success, and may, or may not, share those sources of pride with their elders.

Communication Styles. Americans are direct. They value logic and linear thinking and expect people to speak clearly and in a straightforward manner.

Use statistics to back up your claims, since Americans are impressed by hard data and evidence.

The Netherlands
They place high value on cleanliness and neatness.

Shake hands with everyone individually including children.

Portugal
Nepotism is considered a good thing, since it implies that employing people one knows and trusts is of primary importance.

A fair amount of getting-to-know-you conversation may take place before the business conversation begins.

a.s.o.

I am aware of the degree of stereotype involved, after all this is just a small guide for business people to avoid huge misbehaviours in another country. Yet I found some observations as being roughly true and most of them might be really helpful for a first time contact with a new culture.