Men greeting Women: If you are a man greeting a Hungarian woman, wait to see if she extends her hand first. If she does, respond with a handshake.
Women greeting Men: Women can extend their hands first to men. If a kiss on the cheek is appropriate, usually the man initiates this.
Men greeting Men: A firm handshake is the norm; hugs are generally reserved for very close friends or family.
Dining Etiquette
Dining etiquette is another aspect where expats might need guidance. If you are invited to a Hungarian’s home, it is polite to bring a gift, such as flowers, wine, or chocolates. However, make sure to avoid chrysanthemums, as they are traditionally used at funerals.
Arrival: Be punctual if invited for a meal. Arriving 5-10 minutes after the specified time is acceptable, but anything more might be considered rude.
Table Manners: Wait to be told where to sit, and observe the host for cues on when to begin eating. It is polite to finish everything on your plate, as leaving food may suggest you did not enjoy the meal.
Toasting: In Hungary, it’s customary to make eye contact when clinking glasses during a toast. An interesting cultural note is that Hungarians generally prefer not to clink beer glasses, a tradition stemming from the 1848 revolution.
Communication Style
Hungarians tend to be direct but diplomatic in their communication. They value honesty and straightforwardness but also employ a certain level of formality and politeness. When doing business or engaging in professional settings, it is crucial to maintain a formal demeanor.
Titles: Use titles and surnames until invited to use first names. The Hungarian language places the surname before the first name, which can be confusing for expats at first.
Conversation Topics: While Hungarians are open to discussing a range of topics, it’s wise to avoid overly personal questions or contentious topics such as politics, unless you know the person well.
Public Behavior
Public behavior in Hungary is quite formal. Loud and boisterous behavior is frowned upon, especially in places like churches, museums, and other public settings.
Dress Code: Hungarians dress smartly in public. Even in casual situations, an effort to look neat and tidy is appreciated.
Queueing: Always respect the queue, and wait your turn. Skipping ahead or pushing is considered very rude and is likely to cause offense.
Business Etiquette
If you’re an expat working in Hungary, understanding local business etiquette can play a crucial role in your professional success. Punctuality is valued highly in business settings, and meetings generally start on time.
Meeting Preparations: Be prepared with presentations and documents. Detailed agendas are appreciated, and it is customary to exchange business cards at the beginning of a meeting.
Negotiations: Hungarians are tough negotiators but fair. Decisions might take longer as they prefer thorough analysis and consideration.
Corporate Hierarchy: Hungarian businesses maintain a clear hierarchy. Respecting seniority and addressing higher-ranking individuals appropriately is important.
Understanding Local Laws and Regulations
As an expat, familiarizing yourself with local laws and regulations is crucial. For instance, smoking is banned in public places, including bars and restaurants. Also, it is illegal to drink alcohol in public places outside of designated areas like pubs or beer gardens.
Driving: Hungary has strict drunk-driving laws; the legal blood alcohol content is 0.00%.
Public Transportation: Tickets must be purchased and validated when using public transport to avoid hefty fines.
Learning the Hungarian Language
While many Hungarians speak English, especially in business circles and younger generations, making an effort to learn some Hungarian can go a long way in showing respect and integrating into the community.
Basic Phrases: Learning basic greetings and phrases such as ‘Good morning’ (Jó reggelt), ‘Thank you’ (Köszönöm), and ‘Please’ (Kérem) can be very helpful.
Language Courses: Consider enrolling in a language course or using language learning apps. This will not only help you communicate but also deepen your understanding of Hungarian culture.
Conclusion
Adjusting to life in Hungary can be a rewarding experience for expats. By understanding and respecting the local customs and etiquette, you can integrate more smoothly into Hungarian society, foster genuine relationships, and enhance your living experience in this vibrant country. Embracing these cultural nuances will enrich your expatriate journey and open doors to a deeper connection with this unique European culture.
