Advertisement

Italy is an incredibly diverse, culturally rich country where food, family and vino take center stage. As a newcomer, you will be welcomed and encouraged to enjoy Italy's hospitality. But as you get situated in your new job and life, the many local dialects and political perspectives may put you on edge at first. Here's our guide to savoring the Italian way of life.

Language and Politics

Italian dialects can be so different from region to region that native speakers often have a difficult time understanding each other. Still, try to learn as much Italian as possible. English may be understood and used in most major tourist destinations, but having a functional use of Italian will give you valuable insight into the culture.

Similarly, the political spectrum is so broad that you will see every sort of extremism, with a range of moderate political parties in between. Don't be afraid to ask questions, but avoid interjecting your opinion about Italian politics unless you have thoroughly studied European history. Even then, proceed with caution.

The unification of Europe has brought disproportionate prosperity to Italy. The north has seen an influx of new business, but the south has suffered from increased prices on goods, resulting in poverty.

Family is important everywhere, though. Italians take great care to raise their children in the community, and you will often see them at what Americans would consider adult functions. As for gender roles, Italy is still a patriarchal country, although women are moving into higher positions of authority.

Food and Drink

Food is very important -- the more local and fresh, the better. You will find that the food is much different and often much better than its American counterpart. Pizza, for example, tastes nothing like it does in the States: It is thin, has a more complex texture and may contain no cheese or tomato at all.

The meal is normally broken down into two or three main smaller dishes: the primi, secondi and dolce courses. The primi can be a pasta or some sort of salad. The secondi can be a meat or a vegetable dish. The dolce is normally served after or before coffee but generally not with it.

Your meal could last for several hours, so chew slowly. You will have plenty of time to digest, because you will be expected to finish at least most of each plate.

Wine is the primary drink in Italy, but it is considered part of your meal, not the primary focus. Table wine is chosen to complement the meal or to celebrate the season or region. Choose locally, or order the unlabeled house wine, which is often better than what's on the menu and less expensive.

Tipping is not the most common way to show appreciation for your meal. Instead, tell the waiter how much you enjoyed it. If you felt the meal was particularly spectacular, tip 10 percent.

Etiquette Tips

It's customary to bring a gift when visiting someone. If the person has a family, choose a gift accordingly. If there's a newborn in the family, buy something for the child. If the person is single, something unique and special will do. A good bottle of local wine or a locally made box of candy will be equally acceptable.

Italians are very touch-oriented. A handshake can be exchanged for a kiss on each cheek. Direct kissing on the cheek is reserved for family members, however. Try touching cheeks while doing the deed and kissing the air just to be on the safe side. Feel out what is acceptable. A faux pas is easily remedied, because Italians would rather you tried to adapt than not at all.

On a main street, you will notice Italians walk slowly and deliberately and check each other out. Everyone is looking at everyone else to see what they are wearing and how they are wearing it. There is no hustling and bustling when shopping. Life is leisurely, since Italians work very long hours. Enjoy the scenery.

The purpose of this article is to both provide information and facilitate general dialogue about various employment-related topics. No legal advice is being given and no attorney-client relationship created. Please see the disclaimer for further limitations and conditions.