SDLC 105 Journal #3

[Chelsea Prough]

Body language is very important in Italian communication, as Italians are among the most emotionally demonstrative cultures (in fact, I chose to focus my presentation this week on body language and hand gestures, especially in business settings). Family is the most important affiliation in Italian society. In general, there is much less "personal space" then we're used to in the US, and pushing/shoving/crowding is not considered particularly rude. (After I returned from living in Italy, I had to dial down my aggression level when riding the metro in Washington DC!) Introductions are especially key. Cheek kissing is common among acquaintances, with pairs kissing once on each cheek. Handshakes may also be long. You will often see men ambracing, and two men or two women are perfectly comfortable walking arm in arm together. Eye contact is also important. To call over a waiter, you must make eye contact and raise your finger--otherwise, they won't bring the check. In terms of boundaries, Italy also has a very flirtatious culture, which is widely accepted. A particularly unusual custom is that without fail Italians clap when their plane lands!