31-country business-culture briefs — customs stated as common practice, backed by our data.
Handshakes are the standard greeting in business settings, with firm eye contact conveying sincerity and respect. Cheek kisses may occur between acquaintances in social contexts but are uncommon in formal business meetings. Avoid shaking hands across a threshold, as this is considered bad luck in Russian culture.
Use a person's first name and patronymic (e.g., Ivan Ivanovich) in formal settings — this is the customary sign of respect. Switch to first names only when the Russian counterpart explicitly invites you to do so. Preparing business cards with a Russian-language reverse side is a well-received professional gesture.
When gifting flowers, always present an odd number — even numbers are associated with funerals and mourning. Yellow flowers carry connotations of separation or infidelity in some contexts and are best avoided. Refrain from publicly criticizing Russian politics, history, or national identity, as these topics can quickly create friction.
Meetings typically open with formal introductions and small talk, with the first encounter often focused on relationship-building rather than deal-making. Agendas may shift fluidly based on conversation; be prepared to adapt. Bringing thorough written materials and data strengthens your credibility, as Russian decision-makers value well-prepared counterparts.
Negotiations tend to be protracted; Russian counterparts commonly open with ambitious positions, expecting a back-and-forth process. Decision-making authority is often concentrated at senior levels, so avoid pressuring for quick answers. Building personal trust is essential — Russians typically prioritize long-term partnerships over transactional, one-off deals.
Business meals are usually held at restaurants, where the host typically orders and leads frequent toasting, often with vodka. Politely citing health reasons is a generally accepted way to decline alcohol; however, refusing all toasts entirely can come across as standoffish. Keep dinner conversation warm and relationship-focused rather than pressing on contractual details.
Punctuality is expected from foreign guests at business meetings — arrive on time or slightly early as a sign of professionalism. Internal approval and bureaucratic processes can be slow; project timelines should account for deliberate decision-making. Moscow operates on UTC+3, which is five hours behind Beijing (UTC+8) — factor this into scheduling cross-border calls.
Key public holidays include New Year (January 1–8), Russian Orthodox Christmas (January 7), International Women's Day (March 8), Labour Day (May 1), and Victory Day (May 9). Travel and reduced availability are common around these periods — confirm meeting schedules well in advance. Sending a brief congratulatory message before major holidays is a practical way to maintain goodwill with Russian partners.