Answers: A, B & D
Tipping
Tipping is not a common practice in Slovenia. Hotel and restaurant staff do not rely on tips, but if someone provides attentive service it is appropriate to leave five or ten percent more than the bill. Alternatively, some people round up a restaurant bill. Porters should be tipped per bag.
Taxi drivers are not customarily tipped, but some passengers round up the fare. If you negotiate the cost of a taxi ride in advance, be clear about the price you are willing to pay so that no additional tip is expected.
Business practices / Business style
Decision-making and hierarchy
The power of decision-making is generally concentrated at the top of corporate structure. To effectively negotiate and achieve a firm decision, foreign businesspeople should focus their efforts on senior management.
The clear structure of business in Slovenia will enable newcomers to determine fairly easily who holds positions of authority.
In the same vein, Slovenes are attentive to foreigners' educational accomplishments, professional titles, and other achievements. Be sure to include any such titles and advanced degrees - if appropriate - on your business card.
Social customs / Etiquette
Slovenes tend to be reserved, polite, and highly educated. They take pride in their homes, and often spend a great deal of weekend time cultivating a garden or making improvements to the house.
Visiting someone's home
People do not generally drop in on each other unannounced. If you invited for a meal or a visit, it is polite to bring flowers, wine, or a small gift. Something for the children will also be appreciated. Punctuality is important. Utensils are held the continental way: knife in the right hand and fork in the left. Wine is generally used to toast each other - everyone raises their glasses, saying "Na zdravje," or, "to your health." You may be offered several servings of food and drink if you clear your plate or drain your glass. Guests normally leave very shortly after the meal ends. A reciprocal invitation should follow soon, and a thank-you note should be sent.
Excerpted from the Living Abroad report on Slovenia
Written by Michael Cadden, SGMS-T, VP International Operations
