Italy, the boot-shaped peninsula on the Mediterranean, is home to over 60 million people.
The official language is Italian. However, many Italians speak many different dialects based on where in the country they live. English is also spoken throughout Italy.
Italy has a parliamentary government with a bicameral parliament, Prime Minister, and President.
More than 90 percent of Italians are Roman Catholics, but the remainder practice Judaism or Protestantism.
The currency of Italy is the Euro.
Italians have an expression, bella figura, which means the ability to conduct oneself with dignity, pride and confidence in public. Be aware that everyone is noticing you and your behavior and judgments are being made.
Lining up is not often conducted with aplomb. Expect line-jumping and pushing ahead.
A few expressions that have specific meanings are:
Chewing gum is considered vulgar.
Don’t expect non-smoking section of public places to be respected. Smoking happens everywhere – no matter the rules.
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