🇦🇱 Albania

Greetings

• Shaking hands is a common custom both when meeting for the first time and when saying goodbye, and it may be repeated during meetings.

• Greet with a smile and show respect by maintaining eye contact. Avoid being overly formal or distant; a friendly approach is preferred.

• Hugging or kissing someone you have just met is generally not welcomed unless they initiate it.

• When someone greets you, make sure to return the greeting.

• In business settings, a firm handshake is common, while among close friends and family, warmer greetings such as hugging and kissing on both cheeks are widespread.

Communication

• Communication can be direct and sincere. In particular, it is common for supervisors to offer constructive criticism in front of colleagues.

• Albanians are fair negotiators and open-minded. They enjoy bargaining for a good price, but they also care that agreements are fair to both sides.

• While Albanians can be quite direct in some situations (for example, when commenting on physical appearance), they generally prefer indirect communication on sensitive topics.

• There is a strong tendency to maintain a positive image, especially regarding family matters. This may lead to avoiding direct discussion of negative news or embarrassing situations.

• Verbal agreements are taken seriously, and failing to honor them is considered a serious offense.

• Speaking loudly during normal conversations is common and does not necessarily indicate anger.

• Albanian women may sometimes tend to speak more in groups, even talking at the same time.

• Young people are taught not to argue with elders and to listen to them respectfully.

• Communication within the family and among close relatives tends to be more direct.

• Adolescents, in particular, are taught to be cautious when sharing their feelings and thoughts with strangers.

• The Albanian language is not only a means of communication but also a powerful symbol of ethnic, spiritual, and cultural unity.

Business Meetings

• Attending business meetings on time in Albania is a fundamental element of building a healthy professional relationship.

• Showing respect for the hierarchical structure in the workplace is very important.

• Business meetings often begin with a discussion of current issues, followed by the presenter providing information on the main topic.

• At the end of the meeting, it is customary to thank the participants and shake hands before leaving.

• Business meetings in Albania can be formal, yet they often take place in a hospitable and welcoming atmosphere.

• Respect for hierarchical and cultural norms, such as those related to family and religion, is essential.

• Albanian business culture places strong emphasis on individual responsibility and hard work.

• Personal connections and mutual trust are highly valued in both business and social interactions.

• Hierarchy is important in Albanian workplaces, with a clear distinction between supervisors and subordinates.

Gift Giving

• Albanians generally do not exchange gifts at the first business meeting.

• Gifts such as chocolate, cake, cookies/biscuits, baklava, and Turkish delight are considered ideal options.

• Giving money should be avoided, as it may be perceived as a bribe and could be rejected.

• Albanian business partners and clients may appreciate watercolor maps of their own country as gifts.

• A travel mug featuring designs that evoke Albania can also be an impressive gift choice.

• An item symbolizing Albania’s historic bunkers can serve as a meaningful souvenir gift.

• A thoughtful gift is an effective way to strengthen business relationships and establish rapport quickly.

• For international gift deliveries, platforms such as Giftsenda offer convenience by avoiding shipping fees and customs delays.

Business Attire

• Formal business attire is generally recommended for meetings with government officials.

• Smart business casual is appropriate for meetings with business professionals and visits to local companies.

• Albanians tend to dress more casually when attending business meetings held in cafés or private residences.

Randevu

• Albanians generally have a more relaxed approach to time and punctuality, and meetings may be flexible in terms of duration.

• However, it is still important to respect the agreed-upon meeting time or the approximate schedule discussed with the host.