Country guide
Turkey Business etiquette and meeting customs
Europe/Istanbul
What kind of meeting?
Moderate punctuality
A few minutes late is tolerated, but let people know if you'll be later.
Meeting Culture
Recommended duration60-90 min
Communication StyleWarm, hospitable
Greeting StyleHandshake, sometimes light embrace
Daily Schedule
Work Hours09:00 – 18:00
Breakfast08:00 – 09:00
Lunch12:00 – 13:00
Dinner19:00 – 21:00
Sleep23:00 – 07:00
Tips for Meetings
For the kind of meeting you chose above.
Dress Code
Business formal
Tone
Hospitable, respectful of hierarchy
- ·Always accept offered cay (tea) — it signals respect
- ·Build personal rapport before discussing business matters
- ·Defer to senior members in meeting settings
General Tips
- ·Some flexibility in start times
- ·Tea (cay) is always offered — accept it
- ·Build personal relationships before business
- ·Respect elders and seniority in meetings
Cultural Notes
- ·Late dinner
- ·Important breakfast culture
Meeting someone from Turkey?
Find the best timeCultural information is for general guidance only and may not reflect every individual's practices.
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