Greeting Etiquette in North Macedonia

Do: Offer a Firm Handshake with Direct Eye Contact
When meeting someone for the first time in North Macedonia, it is customary to offer a firm handshake accompanied by direct eye contact. This gesture is seen as a sign of sincerity and confidence.

Don’t: Hug or Kiss When Meeting Someone for the First Time
While close friends and family might greet each other with a hug or a kiss on the cheek, this is not common practice when two people meet for the first time. Stick to handshakes unless the other person initiates a different form of greeting.

Communication Style

Do: Be Direct but Diplomatic
People in North Macedonia appreciate straightforward communication, but it’s important to remain diplomatic. Expressing oneself clearly and directly is valued, but always with consideration for the other person’s feelings and perspectives.

Don’t: Criticize Publicly
Criticizing someone in a public setting is considered extremely rude and could cause embarrassment. If you need to provide negative feedback, do so in private and constructively.

Dining Etiquette

Do: Accept Invitations to Home Dinners
Being invited to someone’s home for a meal is a sign of friendship and respect. Accepting such invitations is considered polite and provides a great opportunity to bond with locals and experience Macedonian hospitality.

Don’t: Begin Eating Before the Host
At a dining table, it is customary to wait for the host to start eating before anyone else does. This shows respect for the host’s role and acknowledges their effort in preparing the meal.

Religious Sensitivities

Do: Show Respect for Religious Traditions
North Macedonia is predominantly Orthodox Christian, with significant Muslim and other religious minorities. Showing respect for religious practices and traditions is crucial, regardless of your personal beliefs. For instance, dressing modestly when visiting religious sites.

Don’t: Refuse to Participate in Religious Observances During Festivities
During major religious festivities, such as Orthodox Easter or Ramadan, participate respectfully in activities, even if you are not of that faith. Participation can simply mean being present and showing respect, rather than active involvement in religious rites.

Gift Giving and Receiving

Do: Accept and Give Gifts Graciously
Gift-giving is a common practice in North Macedonia for various occasions, including name days, which are celebrated more commonly than birthdays. Accept gifts with both hands as a sign of gratitude and respect.

Don’t: Open Gifts Immediately Upon Receiving Them
It is not customary to open gifts immediately upon receiving them in front of the giver. You should wait until the giver leaves or later when you are alone. This is seen as a mark of politeness and respect for the giver’s modesty.

Understanding Local Time Perception

Do: Be Flexible with Time
Time perception in North Macedonia can be more flexible compared to other countries, especially in social settings. Being a few minutes late to social gatherings is generally acceptable.

Don’t: Be Late for Business Meetings</b
However, for business meetings and formal appointments, punctuality is important. Being late can be seen as unprofessional and disrespectful.