Lithuania

Greetings

Man greeting Man - Men shake hands when greeting one another. A firm handshake is the norm. Good friends and family may engage in light hugs.

Woman greeting Woman - At a first meeting, women generally shake hands. Many times a simple nod of acknowledgment will suffice. Good friends may engage in hugs or exchange kisses on the cheek.

Man greeting Woman - At a first meeting a regular handshake will do. Many times a simple nod of acknowledgment will suffice. Good friends may engage in hugs or exchange kisses on the cheek.

Communication Style

• Lithuanians tend to be direct in their communication style. They usually say what they mean without being rude.
• Lithuanians are generally polite, respectful and follow a somewhat conservative protocol when it comes to manners and communication.
• Lithuanians are very warm people even though they might not appear that way during initial meetings. Once they become familiar with someone they tend to open up quite a bit.

Personal Space & Touch

• Lithuanians value their personal space. An arm’s length is the norm. This space may be a bit less with friends and family.
• There is very little to no touching during conversations, especially with members of the opposite sex.
• Lithuanians are very affectionate yet respectful within the family, with friends and business colleagues.

Eye Contact

• Eye contact is extremely important. It is rude not to have eye contact at all times.
• Children are expected to maintain eye contact and to keep their hands out of their pockets as a sign of respect towards adults.
• Good eye contact is necessary in business and social surroundings.

Gestures

• Lithuanians are formal and tend to avoid using many physical gestures.
• Avoid pointing with a single finger; instead use the whole hand with the palm facing up.

Views of Time

• Lithuanians covet their time yet are polite and helpful when needed. They cherish independence and expect fellow Lithuanians to be self sufficient as part of their strong personalities.
• Punctuality is valued, especially in business situations where being late and not calling to let the person know is definitely rude. Time tends to be a bit more relaxed in social situations.
• Transportation services run on time for the most part.

Gender Roles

• Women’s roles are varied throughout the country. They tend to hold the same positions as men, although salaries may be lower. They are expected to be good wives, good mothers and good professionals.
• Education is important and being self-sufficient is highly valued as well..

Taboos

• Lithuanians are respectful people and they expect the same behavior in their country as in any other Catholic country that follows simple manners (no nudity in public places, obscene language, etc).

Law & Order

• The legal drinking age is 18 and is somewhat enforced.
• Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines
• Persons violating Lithuanian laws, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned.

Dress

• For men: conservative, dark or medium colored suits with shirts and conservative ties.
• For women: stylish yet classic business suits or dresses/pants and blouses. Accessories are usually worn.
• Business casual attire may be appropriate depending on the industry.
• It is important to appear clean and well-groomed.

Titles & Business Cards

• Titles are important and it is best to address people directly by using Mr., Mrs., or Miss, followed by the first name or last name. Note: Ponas (Mr), Panele (Ms) or Ponia (Mrs.)
• One should always wait to be invited to use first names before doing so yourself.
• There is no specific protocol surrounding the giving and receiving of business cards.
• It is always best to treat the card with respect.

Meetings

• Arriving on time for a meeting is important. Punctuality is highly valued.
• Business meetings tend to be structured and formal affairs, beginning and ending with a bit of small talk.
• It is best to wait for the host to begin and end the business talk.
• Periods of silence are to be expected. Avoid interrupting someone while they are speaking.
• Being humble is valued so avoid boasting or making claims that may be misinterpreted as arrogance.

Negotiations

• Decisions tend to be made from the top down.
• Avoid hard selling tactics and any sort of conflict or confrontation.

Gift Giving

• Gifts are not usually exchanged at a first meeting.
• If invited to a Lithuanian home, it is appropriate to, good wine, a nice bottle of liquor, or sweets/ chocolates.

Other Observations

• It is always helpful to know a few words in the native language as a sign of respect and will undoubtedly generate a friendlier response from others. For example: "Labas" means hello, "Labas rytas" means good morning, "Labas naktys" means good night, "Prasau" means please or you are welcome and "Aciu " means thank you.