Image by The Prime Minister’s Office via Flickr
The Kazakhstani culture in everyday life gives great honor and respect to elders in the community. The culture is predominantly patriarchical, so men are viewed as the leaders in society.
Hierarchy is also equally important in Kazakhstan democracy and culture. People with prestigious titles, or who play a vital role in society, are given the greatest honor.
These cultural attributes are also depicted in business relationships. To make lasting business relationships in Kazakhstan means knowing how to demonstrate expected behaviors. Here are tips to show proper Kazakhstani business etiquette.
- Handshakes
Handshakes are usually done using both hands and are more gentle compared to the firm American handshake. Handshakes are also customary at the end of meetings, much like what’s done in the U.S. It’s expected that if you encounter the same person several times throughout the day, to shake hands each time. Since a large majority of the Kazakhstani population is Muslim, men do not typically shake hands with women.
- Greetings
It is advisable to wait to be introduced by the senior member of the group rather than introducing yourself. When addressing people, formal academic and professional titles and surnames are used. Before calling someone by their first name, you should wait for them to give you permission to do so.
- Business Cards
Exchanging business cards is a standard practice, so you don’t have to feel you’re being pushy if you give someone your card. Exchanging business cards is very important to affirm your title and gain access to high-ranking members of society. Including your title on your business card is vital, as this is a part of establishing your authority. Kazakhstanis like for your business card to be printed in Russian on one side and in English on the other.
