Italy: First Name or Title?

From ExecutivePlanet.com

Addressing others with respect

Follow Italian business protocol by waiting until you are invited before using first names. People often use titles and surnames even when they have worked together for years. It is usually a sign of respect, though it can also mean that they feel that they do not know each other well enough to move to first names.

In most Italian companies, executives and subordinates continue to use titles and surnames only. In many large Italian multinationals, however, the corporate culture of using first names has become the norm.

You are expected to use “Signore” [Mr.] and “Signora” [Mrs.], plus the family name, when introduced to strangers.

“Signorina” [Miss] is rarely used in Italy today, and is best avoided. It is most commonly used when a woman appears relatively young [late teens /early twenties] and is unmarried.

Where a title is known, it is best to use it, as a title relating to a university degree has higher status than "Signore" or "Signora."

A male university graduate is given the title of “Dottore”, while the female equivalent is “Dottoressa.” If in doubt whether someone has a degree or not it is best to err on the side of caution. You pay a compliment even if you get it wrong.

Italian business etiquette requires that personal and professional titles be used constantly, whether in casual conversation or formal writing. Consequently, ensure that you learn and use the titles of everyone you expect to encounter.

If you have to summon a server or clerk, you may use the phrase “senta”, which means, generally, “please come here.”

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