Greetings
Greetings are an essential part of Hungarian culture and etiquette. Handshakes are typical to greet someone, although hugging is also common. In addition, it is common to ask how the other person is doing and about their family. It is also customary to partake in small talk before getting to business. In Hungary, first impressions count, so it is important to make a good one.
Handshakes
Greetings in Hungary follow certain rituals to show respect and familiarity. An introduction typically involves a handshake and proper titles such as Mr., Mrs., or Miss. If you are introduced to an older generation member, greet them more ceremoniously with a bow while giving them proper titles and their family name. It is a sign of respect to refer to someone as Szerényen – Honorable Sir or Tiszteelt Asszony – Esteemed Madam until they inform you that it is acceptable to address them by their first name.
Conversely, in informal settings such as social functions, hugging or kissing on the cheeks and handshaking is common among those already familiar with each other. In addition, it is considered polite for men to wait for women to offer their hands first when greeting each other before extending one’s own hand. It’s also important to maintain eye contact throughout the greeting.
Address by Title
In Hungary, addressing people by their titles is considered polite and respectful. Therefore, they will often use a specific title when addressing or writing to another person. Titles are an essential part of Hungarian culture. Depending on the context, the age, and the status of the person being addressed, different titles should be used, such as “Úr” for men and “asszony” for women in most formal contexts. However, informal situations present fewer titles, with “Bácsi” for men over 25 and “Hölgyem” for women of similar age.
It’s important to note that most of these titles require in-depth knowledge of one’s family relationship or status within a company or organization to use appropriately. Titles are critical and should never be overlooked while communicating with someone from Hungary.
Gift Giving
Gift-giving is a big part of Hungarian culture and is a great way to show appreciation for someone. However, it is important to remember that you should never give someone something practical, like clothing, as it is seen as too impersonal. Instead, giving something unique and creative is seen as nobler.
Typical gifts to give in Hungary include:
- Traditional Hungarian foods
- Alcohol
- Decorative items
Acceptable Gifts
When visiting Hungary or receiving guests from Hungary, it’s important to be aware of the customs, traditions, and etiquette of gift-giving in this culture. In Hungary, gifting is governed by intricate rules that should be carefully observed if one wishes to avoid offense and express respect for the recipient.
For close family and friends, traditional Hungarian gifts include handmade crafts such as clothing items embroidered with traditional Hungarian motifs such as pálinka (traditional fruit brandy), dolls wearing folk costumes, silver jewelry, figurines of Csikó (Hungarian breed of horse), books related to Hungarian literature or culture and authentic Hungarian foods like Tokaji (sweet dessert wine) or kolbász (Hungarian sausage).
It is considered proper etiquette in Hungary to present a small token when visiting someone’s house. It could consist of flowers, candy, or chocolates. It would also be appropriate to bring a hostess gift from food items such as a strudel or other pastries when dining at someone’s house.
Generally speaking, it is best not to give anything associated with a death, such as knives or scissors, and avoid giving perishable items like fruits as this implies that the receiver will not be able to enjoy them for very long. Furthermore, side-steer is clear from giving any items made from animal skins, such s fur coats, due to cultural sensitivities in some parts of the country. Instead, opt for gift cards from established stores, generally well-received by Hungarians of all ages.
Unacceptable Gifts
Club membership, especially in foreign countries, is seen as an inappropriate and very personal gift. Flowers should be given in odd numbers only and, in general, should consist of the following:
- Red roses – the color of love
- Yellow chrysanthemums – represent despair or sorrow
- White lilies – represent purity
Wreaths are often presented at funerals rather than sent as a gift. Gifts such as handkerchiefs, which might be used to dry mourning tears, are also inappropriate. Gifts of clothing are only suitable if you know the recipient’s size. Perfume should also be avoided if you are giving a gift to someone who is not well acquainted with you.
The color red has long been associated with respect and honor, so traditional gifts include:
- Embroidered towels, scarves, or blouses in that color
- Jewellery incorporating coral or rubies
- Traditional Hungarian decorative boxes made from paper-mâché and painted bright colors reflect Hungarian national dress.
Dining Etiquette
Dining etiquette in Hungary is more casual than in some other countries. When invited to a home, expect traditional Hungarian dishes, such as goulash, stuffed cabbage, and chicken paprikash. It is customary to bring your wine to dinner parties, and it is polite to offer to bring dessert or flowers. When dining out, the host pays for the meal unless otherwise stated.
Table manners in Hungary are considered to be quite formal, and there are certain customs and protocols when it comes to dining:
- It is polite to wait for the host to start eating before beginning your meal.
- It is considered polite to keep your hands visible while eating.
- It is customary to finish all of the food on your plate.
- It is polite to thank the host before leaving the table.
Table Manners
It is considered poor table manners to serve yourself first and then pass dishes to others; instead, everyone should wait for the host to start. Don’t begin eating until invited by the host or toastmaster. Don’t worry about the meal being cold; dinner in Hungary is traditionally served a bit colder than in many other countries worldwide. Always wait for a toast before taking your first sip of wine.
It is considered impolite to pick out undesired items from your plate or leave food on your plate after eating. You should not ask for additional salt or condiments at the dinner table; all necessary items should already be present when you arrive. Smacking, burping, and blowing one’s nose at the table are considered extremely rude, so try to avoid these common habits regardless of how accustomed you have grown to them over time. It is also customary to remain standing until invited by the host to be seated throughout a meal; if in doubt, follow their lead.
Food Preferences
The national dish of Hungary, which can be found all over the country, is gulyásleves or “goulash soup.” Other Hungarian specialties include halászlé, or fisherman’s soup – typically made with freshwater fish and paprika, töltött káposzta (stuffed cabbage leaves), and paprikás csirke (chicken paprikash).
Hungarian cuisine is quite hearty, and the food is often served in large portions. Common foods are rich in protein, such as pork, beef, and poultry, as well as plenty of fish from their natural waters and several different types of vegetables. Sauerkraut is a traditional food of Hungary where cabbage has been fermented with vinegar to give a sour taste, complemented with garnishes such as roasted pork skin, pickles, and vegetables.
Most mid to expensive restaurants require reservations for dinner, although some are more relaxed about it. An informal dress code may be expected when dining at someone’s home for lunch, but it is always better to check beforehand as some families prefer more formal attire. It is important to remember not to arrive late for meals at someone’s home – punctuality is highly valued in Hungary.
It would also be considered polite when invited by someone else that you take flowers or chocolates – unless specified otherwise. Before beginning your meal, it is customary to say ‘Egészségedre,’ which roughly translates into ‘Cheers,’ which indicates that you are ready to begin eating once everyone else has been served their typical first-course soup- usually served before every meal regardless of whether one orders an appetizer.
Social Customs
Hungary is a beautiful, diverse country with unique social customs and etiquette. Therefore, it’s essential to show respect and follow the proper etiquette when visiting a new culture. In Hungary, there are certain customs that every visitor should be aware of when they enter the country.
This guide will provide an overview of common social customs in Hungary to help visitors understand the local culture and show respect while they are visiting:
Language
The official language in Hungary is Hungarian, also known as Magyar. It is a Uralic language, meaning it belongs to the same family as Finnish and Estonian. Though similar in structure to other European languages such as German and Latin, Hungarian uses some unique phonetics that make it somewhat difficult for those who are not native speakers to understand. On the other hand, English is widely spoken in Hungary by people of all age groups.
It would be respectful to greet someone in their native language if at all possible – even just “hello” or “good day” (in Hungarian: Jó napot! – pronounced “yo na-poht”). This simple gesture can go a long way toward establishing a positive relationship with Hungarians living abroad. Additionally, keep in mind that Hungarians generally prefer words of politeness over directness; when asking something of someone, be sure to phrase the request politely, or you may receive an unexpectedly cold response.
Dress Code
The dress code in Hungary is slightly more formal than in other Western European countries, and it is always best to dress conservatively. Business attire should be formal and professional – men should wear suits and ties, while women can wear suits or skirts accompanied by business shirts, blouses, or jackets. Jeans are usually acceptable in informal settings – unless you meet someone of importance, such as a business partner or a VIP.
It is also important to remember that there are specific religious clothing rules to keep in mind. It particularly applies to Muslims visiting the country due to its large Hungarian population. For example, covering hair with a scarf and wearing loose-fitting clothes that show no body parts above the navel is advisable for women when traveling to mosques or other public places during Friday prayers. In general, shorts (for both genders) and revealing clothing should be avoided at all times.
Business Etiquette
Business meetings in Hungary are formal. Business cards are usually exchanged during the initial introductions, and studying the card before putting it away is considered polite. Direct eye contact should be maintained while talking, and it is respectful to remain to stand until invited to sit. Hungarians expected to be addressed by their last name and professional titles.
Presenting gifts is generally not expected.
Meeting Protocol
When conducting business in Hungary, it is essential to know the local customs and etiquette associated with meetings. Furthermore, to demonstrate respect and earn the trust of your Hungarian counterparts, it is important to research and adhere to the following guidelines:
- It is polite to arrive 15 minutes before a meeting; however, it is not uncommon for some people to be late in Hungary. If you’re running late, contact your host or colleagues as soon as possible so they know the situation.
- Shaking hands when entering and leaving a room remains a common practice in Hungary. Firm handshakes should be given to both men and women.
- The most senior person attending will usually sit closest to the door at the head or opposite end of a table – always let an older host or guest take their place first when seating arrangements are made.
- Gesturing with all five fingers may be interpreted offensively, so please avoid this during conversations. Using your index finger when referring to or pointing out something is considered more respectful.
- Discussions during meetings should remain focused on business topics without any personal questions unless directly asked by someone you have met before and have established a close working relationship with.
- In addition, the dress code should typically remain formal such as wearing a suit if invited for lunch or dinner meetings, even if casual attire is accepted within organizations or corporate departments in Hungary.
Gifting in Business
Gift-giving is a vital and meaningful part of doing business in Hungary. If you receive an unexpected gift from someone, don’t be surprised. However, it is good manners to wait until your Hungarian counterpart initiates the exchange of gifts before presenting yours. If and when this time does come, something small such as a nice pen or business card holder, is often highly appreciated. Avoid food items, however delightful they may be unless you know the recipient has expressed a liking for them.
When invited into someone’s home in Hungary, it’s customary to bring flowers or some small and straightforward host/hostess gift such as chocolates, cookies, or pastries (perhaps with poppyseeds if possible). A bottle of good quality red wine is also always welcome. Another popular host/hostess gift choice could be offering to take your hosts out to dinner when you feel the relationship has advanced enough to do so. Be aware that cards are the norm rather than gifts for birthdays and other special occasions in Hungary – although exceptions can be made for close friends and family members. Lastly, try not to wrap gifts too elaborately, as Hungarians prefer subtlety when gifting customs!
Negotiation Tactics
Negotiating in Hungary can be complicated, as many cultural differences lead to misunderstandings. Therefore, before entering negotiations, it is important to understand certain Hungarian customs and etiquette so that your interactions with the other party will be successful and respectful.
When driving a hard bargain, Hungarians use rhetoric rather than aggression to make their points. It means that negotiators should maintain an atmosphere of respect throughout the negotiating process. It is also customary for Hungarians to soften hard feelings via small talk or expressions of thanks or gratitude before negotiating to establish a good relationship between the two parties.
If you are unfamiliar with Hungarian culture and customs, starting negotiations cautiously and slowly building up from there is best. Polite behavior is greatly appreciated in both professional and social circumstances; never attempt to rush through the talks or rush someone else into signing an agreement. On the other hand, avoid the temptation of getting too aggressive when negotiating, as this could result in alienation or offending your counterpart: instead, take a measured approach by ensuring you understand all sides’ arguments thoughtfully before attempting.