Business Etiquette: Professional Practices in Rome

1. Suave Dressing is a Part of the Business Culture in Rome

You'd expect nothing less from the home of Armani, Versace and Valentino! In Rome, style is a statement. Italians have mastered the art of looking effortlessly polished, and the business world is no exception. 

A well-fitted suit, quality leather shoes, and tasteful accessories are the corporate uniform here. While business casual is creeping into some industries, erring on the side of formal is always a safe bet. 

But don't just dress the part; make sure you act the part. Your handshake should be firm but not overbearing. Italians value warmth, so expect direct eye contact and a genuine (but not exaggerated) smile. While the handshake remains the standard greeting, don't be surprised if, after a few meetings, the interaction shifts to a more familiar pat on the back.

2. Understanding Time in Corporate Rome

Punctuality in business culture in Rome operates on its own wavelength. While arriving on time is ideal, don’t be surprised if your Italian counterpart is ten minutes late—it’s a scheduling norm, not a sign of disrespect. 

However, if you're a foreigner, it's best to be on time, especially for first meetings.

And if for some reason you're kept waiting, skip the watch-tapping—small talk, a good espresso, and a relaxed attitude will go a lot further than appearing impatient.

3. Meetings Can Be a Social Affair According to Corporate Norms in Rome

Don't be surprised if your meeting in Rome doesn't stick to a strict business agenda. Italians prefer to work with people they trust, and that trust is built through conversation. Expect discussions to start with personal matters: family, food, and football (AS Roma or Lazio? Choose wisely). Jumping straight into business can seem impersonal.

Once the meeting starts, be prepared for passionate discussions. Italians are expressive speakers who may interrupt, raise their voices or make dramatic gestures. This is not hostility; it's engagement. A little charm, humour, and an appreciation for lively dialogue will go a long way.

4. The Rules of Hierarchy and Decision-Making

Corporate etiquette in Rome tends to be hierarchical, especially in traditional industries. Decisions often rest with senior managers, so working relationships with key decision-makers are crucial. If you're dealing with a family-run business (which is common), understand that family ties play a significant role in authority.

Patience is essential. The decision-making process may be slower than in some other countries because discussions, consultations, and approvals take time. Pushing too hard for a quick decision can backfire. Instead, nurture the relationship and trust the process.

5. Professional Practices in Rome for Corporate Dining

Forget stuffy office negotiations—in Rome, business happens over lunch or dinner. Meals are a ritual, not a rush, with business lunches often lasting at least two hours in a prestigious restaurant.

• Wine Etiquette – Let your Italian counterpart choose, but if it's your call, opt for quality.
• Coffee Rules – No cappuccino after lunch—espresso is the only acceptable choice.
• Timing Matters – Business talk starts after the main course, never before the appetiser.
• The Bill – The host pays, but offering to contribute is polite. If you're hosting, handle it discreetly—no loud debates.

If the meal turns into a long conversation, take it as a good sign—you’re on the right track.

6. Corporate Etiquette for Communication in Rome

Email and written communication should be professional yet warm. Too terse a message can come across as cold, while too formal a message can come across as stiff. A balance between professionalism and friendliness is ideal. When speaking, tone and body language carry as much weight as words.

Phone calls are common and sometimes preferred to emails. If your Italian colleague calls instead of replying to your email, it's not a slight — it's just how things work.

Italians appreciate a good deal but dislike aggressive haggling. Negotiations involve some back-and-forth, but pushing too hard or being too rigid can be counterproductive. Creativity and flexibility are highly valued, making adaptability an essential skill.

Face-to-face meetings are preferred over digital communication, especially for finalising agreements. While a handshake carries significant weight, contracts remain important—it’s simply a reflection of the trust built throughout the process.

Bonus: Other Unwritten Rules of Business Etiquette in Rome

• Body language speaks volumes: Expect expressive gestures and good eye contact.
• Silence can be misinterpreted: Engaging in conversation, even with small interjections, shows interest.
• Work/life balance matters: Italians take their leisure time seriously, so avoid scheduling meetings too late in the day or at weekends unless absolutely necessary.
• Respect for tradition is important: Rome is a city steeped in history, and respect for its customs, both in and out of the office, will always be appreciated.

Wrapping Up

Doing business in Rome is as much about relationships as it is about contracts. Mastering business etiquette in Rome means combining professionalism with warmth, respecting tradition while embracing spontaneity, and approaching meetings, meals, and negotiations with a touch of Italian charm. 

Master these professional practices in Rome and you're all set for a successful time.