Business Gift Giving Etiquette
- Gifts are not typically exchanged for the initial business meeting.
- The Swiss consider punctuality more important than gestures of affection like with a gift.
- It is a good idea to be prepared to give a gift if one is offered to you.
- A gift with your company logo is acceptable.
- Gift can be exchanged after successful negotiations. Do not give a gift more expensive than what you would bring for a visit to someone's home.
- When having lunch with a Swiss colleague, avoid separate checks. If someone is doing you a favor by giving you advice, offer to pay the tab. If the situation is unclear, make it clear diplomatically and offer to alternate who pays.
Gifts to Avoid
- Sharp objects such as knives, letter openers, or scissors should not be given as this signifies severing of the relationship or bad luck.
- Extremely expensive gifts. These can be seen as tacky and a form of bribery.
- When giving flowers avoid red roses and carnations as these are symbols of romantic intentions. White lilies and Chrysanthemums are for funerals so they should also be avoided.