What is the business etiquette like in Geneva?
Students should be prepared to encounter a different style of work and life while in Geneva. Some key points to be aware of are: • People are more direct in their comments regarding physical appearance – it is not uncommon for you to get complimented when you look nice, and criticized when you don’t: what can be seen can be spoken about! So don’t take it personally! • Also, in social settings, such as in bars or clubs, you might be surprised by how people look at you more directly and intensely more than they would in the US. Again, that’s something cultural and not something personal. • Switzerland has a high context communication culture; meaning that what gets said isn’t the whole message. Learn to read body language and hand movements as well as changes of tone and facial expressions – if you can read these you will get the picture! • A typical workday is 9am – 6pm, with a lunch break from 12 to 2. Depending on your company you might have only a one-hour lunch break. • Exchanging k
