Schedule meetings ahead of time – at least one to two weeks in advance and confirm by email or telephone call.
Learn the proper titles, positions and responsibilities of the people you are meeting with and the proper pronunciation of their names beforehand. You can use professional or occupational titles to address a Turkish business person.
Make sure that your first contact is through a third party that is well respected. Trade shows, embassies and banks can provide contacts who can open doors and introduce relevant business partners.
Avoid making appointments during Turkish holidays.
Most businesspeople in Turkey speak some English, French and/or German. However, it is advisable to ask if an interpreter will be needed.
Punctuality is important. If you expect to be late, you should call ahead and give an explanation.
Be familiar with the people in your prospective business partner’s organization and their level of importance in the management hierarchy.
Titles, such as Doctor or Professor, are appreciated, and are often used without adding the person’s family name.