Czech Business Communication Styles

As with many Central and Eastern European countries, English language levels tend to be very high and this is especially true amongst the younger generation – many of whom have worked or studied outside their own country.

Therefore, it is unusual for the services of a translator to be needed but it might be politic to check in advance. (Remember that many senior managers are older and that their English language levels may be weaker than their younger colleagues. Senior managers remain senior managers however and will probably be the decision makers. Don’t ignore the senior people because their English is weakest.)

Czechs would see themselves as non-confrontational and their communication patterns reflect this psychological approach. Their speech patterns can be indirect and they will go out of their way to avoid hurting somebody’s feelings. It is, therefore, difficult to get a direct ‘no’ from a business contact. People would prefer to talk around the subject and prevaricate rather come out with an outright rejection. (This is in stark contrast to many of their neighbours such as Poland or Germany who are extremely direct and believe in saying exactly what they think at all times.)

When Czechs do disagree with you, they will often lower their eyes and become silent. Don’t push the issue at this point – move on and come back to it later.

As has already been stated, there tends to be very little visual or verbal feedback during meetings in the Czech Republic. People listen silently and with little obvious body language being displayed. People will tend to wait and think before responding to a point made to them – do not be impatient. Allow Czechs the time and space needed to consider your points and to reply to them at their own pace.

Titles are often used in business situations and are considered highly prestigious. Academic titles are often used before the surname and it might be seen as disrespectful to dispense with this formality.

Author

This country-specific business culture profile was written by Keith Warburton who is the founder of the cultural awareness training consultancy Global Business Culture.  Global Business culture is a leading training provider in the fields of cross-cultural communication and global virtual team working.  We provide training to global corporations in live classroom-based formats, through webinars and also through our cultural awareness digital learning hub, Global Business Compass.

This World Business Culture profile is designed as an introduction to business culture in Australia only and a more detailed understanding needs a more in-depth exploration which we can provide through our training and consultancy services.

Author

This country-specific business culture profile was written by Keith Warburton who is the founder of the cultural awareness training consultancy Global Business Culture. 

Global Business culture is a leading training provider in the fields of cross-cultural communication and global virtual team working.  We provide training to global corporations in live classroom-based formats, through webinars and also through our cultural awareness digital learning hub, Global Business Compass.

This World Business Culture profile is designed as an introduction to business culture in Czech Republic only and a more detailed understanding needs a more in-depth exploration which we can provide through our training and consultancy services.