Business Culture in Central and Eastern European Countries: The Role of the Manager’s Etiquette and Image

Abstract

This paper aims to identify the behaviors and image of managers in terms of business culture and their synthetic description considering cultural differences pertaining to Central and Eastern European Countries (CEECs). The analysis used existing sources (desk research), i.e., Polish and foreign theoretical and empirical output concerning business culture. In the literature on the subject, it has not been fully empirically proven that how a manager behaves and the business image he or she projects are translated into the success or failure of the company. It is assumed that business etiquette matters in global business. There are opinions that managerial staff is not fully prepared to carry out tasks in international business conditions. It is necessary to redefine educational programs in management to include the topic related to good manners and business etiquette. When considering the situation of managers of CEEC companies, their approach towards business culture may vary. These differences and discrepancies are most frequently reflected in the context of interpersonal communication as well as organizing and holding meetings, negotiations, and business events. The perceived decline with regard to the level of culture and the increase of the value of individuality among managers may constitute a basis for consideration for managers in charge of personnel, representatives of training centers, and researchers dealing with the issue of business culture. The presented information concerning business etiquette and the manager’s image may be directly applied in business practice.