By the last estimate, there are 10.98 million people living in Tunisia.
The official language of Libya is Arabic, the primary language. Some business people speak English, Italian, German or the language of commerce, French, except in the south.
98% of Tunisians are Muslim.
The currency is the Tunisian dinar (TND) and they are 6 hours ahead of the Eastern Time Zone.
Greetings are formal. It is considered polite to inquire after the health and well-being of family.
Handshakes are customary between members of the same sex.
If you have a relationship with a Tunisian, it would be usual to kiss both cheeks starting with the left, men with men, women with women.
When men greet women, a woman must extend her hand for it to be shaken. Otherwise, men bow their heads as a greeting.
Give and receive objects using your right hand. Shake hands with the right hand.
Business is relationship-driven and requires respect. Expect to invest time in your connection with business people. Show concern for others and build trust in your relationship.
If you use business cards, one side should be translated into French or Arabic, the most commonly spoken languages in the country. Business card trading doesn’t involve a formal ritual.
Personal appearance is essential in how you are viewed by business contacts. A dark conservative suit is best for an initial meeting. Women should wear clothing covering to the knee and most of the arm.
Business practices are marked by courtesy and formality.
If you aren’t fluent in French, hire an interpreter for business.
There is usually a good deal of small talk prior to business meetings.
Businesses close for lunch from 12:30 to 2:30 Monday through Friday and possibly during prayer times.
Workdays are shorter during Ramadan.
Never criticize publicly, causing colleagues to lose face.
Deadlines are not set in stone.
If you are invited into an Tunisian’s home, good gifts for the hostess include nuts, candy, flowers, or pastries. Don’t bring alcohol unless you’re certain the recipient partakes.
Don’t expect your gift to be opened when it’s received.
Dress modestly.
Don’t assume that if you are invited into a home, your spouse is as well. Be sure to ask.
Remove your shoes at the door.
Continue to use your right hand for eating and passing dishes.
You may be given a wash basin for the start of a meal. Keep your eye on the host.
Our large, non-profit educational group for marketing executives looked for someone knowledgeable on the topic of business etiquette and one name kept rising to the top, Cynthia Lett. Her talk was amazing. Since we were limited by time, she focused on the critical aspects of business interactions. Cynthia is a tremendous resource for any company or organization looking for a protocol course.
Director of Marketing and Business Development Naden/Lean, LLC
I hired Cynthia to become an etiquette consultant. She was knowledgeable on every subject and I learned quite a but about the business from her. Many years later she continues to be a resource to me.
The AML Group, San Francisco, CA
I can truly say without a doubt, Cynthia Lett consistently delivers quality and professionalism as an international expert in etiquette and protocol. I highly recommend The Lett Group to anyone wanting to get the right information from the very best!
President VerbaCom® Executive Development
Cynthia Lett was the top-rated speaker at several international Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI) events. She possesses vast knowledge and practical experience in international protocol and etiquette. As a speaker, Cynthia is wonderful at engaging an audience with real examples and practical tools for helping them deal with intercultural protocol and etiquette situations. I would highly recommend her for educational events for any group.
Association Director Association Management Group, McLean, VA
Cynthia is one of the top business etiquette professionals in the DC area. I recommend Cynthia Lett for your business etiquette needs.
President & Chief Image Officer
Cynthia is the consummate etiquette and protocol professional. She founded ISPEP to develop and enhance the standards of our profession because she cares so deeply about what we do and the quality of service clients receive.
Founder/President