Info on Slovak

BASIC INFO FOR SLOVAKIA

Greeting

-Man greeting Man –Men shake hands when greeting one another while maintaining direct eye contact.  Good friends may include a light hug. 

-Woman greeting Woman – Light kisses on the cheeks are the most common form of greeting in . Often times it is just a light touching of cheeks rather than actual kisses. This form of greeting, however, is reserved for if two women already know each other and are friends. At a first meeting, women generally shake hands.

-Greetings between Men & Women – Light kisses on the cheeks are the most common form of greeting for friends and family. Often times it is just a light touching of cheeks rather than actual kisses.  At a first meeting a regular handshake will do.  It is customary to let the woman offer her hand first. 

Note: Children are expected to say hello (dobry den) to adults.  Adults are not required to reply.  In addition, when joining a group of people, introductions are not necessarily made quickly, and sometimes not at all.  People do not smile hello to each other in passing that often.  On the street, if you pass someone you are acquainted with, you can say dobry den (with a smile if you like).  However, if you only smile, you will get a blank stare in return.

Personal space & touching

 An arm's length distance or a bit closer is an appropriate amount of personal space during conversations.

 Given the close nature of the Slovak greeting with kisses, Slovaks are generally more at ease maintaining personal space. 

 Slovaks may seem quiet and reserved upon first meeting.  However, during subsequent meetings, touching during a conversation is acceptable and considered a sign of affection.

Communication Style

* Generally speaking, Slovaks are quite shy. They tend to be more reserved and speak less until they are more familiar with who they are speaking with.

* Many Slovaks are also very self conscious of themselves when speaking in English...