Best networking practices in Prague
Creating a social and professional network in Prague can take some time as everywhere else. It is difficult to say how to behave, what to say, or what not to say. Are Czechs like other European nationalities? Or should they be approached in a different way? Let's try to discover more about the Czech networking etiquette in Prague.
How to approach Czech people?
Czech people like introductions. Let other people introduce you to someone. After this, you can be sure that the communication will be easier because you are not a stranger anymore. When you are introduced to somebody, either for work or not, it is common to shake the person's hand. cheek-to-cheek kiss greeting is still not common here, and only a few people do that.
Czechs like to act fast, and they tend to rely on people. If an agreement is done, you can count on it. When talking to Czechs, you may be surprised that they go directly to the point. Local people usually do not need to be asked “how are you?”, and they are not fans of small talks. If you meet someone for business purposes, just do it! No need to talk about private life and things which are not related to the business. Moreover, women can feel offended if you ask about their family and children.
Once both sides have reached an agreement, Czechs always want a written or email confirmation with all the terms and conditions outlined in full. This is the standard process for business deals.
Alcohol and networking in Prague
(Un) Fortunately, alcohol is part of the Czech tradition and lifestyle. It does not matter whether you are invited to a private party or a work-related meeting. Especially if an event happens in the evening, there will be alcohol probably. Beer is considered a national drink, and it is not weird to drink small beer for lunch. People are more talkative and open, and less shy. Many significant deals and agreements are done thanks to alcohol.
You are more likely to make new connections when you have a drink with them. Attend work events and teambuilding. It is likely that you will end up in a bar at 5 AM drinking last beer with the CEO.
If a business is done and signed, you may be offered something stronger to celebrate. Local spirits like slivovice, or becherovka can be drunk during special occasions like that. Both are quite strong, so be careful. It is the ability to drink alcohol at business events while remaining pleasant and fun to be around. It would be impolite to refuse, so accept it if possible.
Controversial topics in Prague
Usually, Czech people have a good sense of humour. But there are still some topics which you should better avoid. What are they? Politics and religion are two things which should not be discussed if you want to avoid misunderstandings and potential dispute with a friend or a colleague.
Regarding politics, especially the actual president (Miloš Zeman) and prime minister (Andrej Babiš) create controversy between people. Both won elections, and many people admire them for their work and opinions, but also hate them.
Another topic to pay attention to is religion – especially Islam. The question of immigration and foreigners is sensitive for many people in the Czech Republic. The country is not like Germany, France, or Belgium. It is sad, but many people fear foreigners and want to keep the country for themselves. This fear comes probably from the past when the Czech Republic was occupied by other nations.
