Russia: Conversation
From ExecutivePlanet.com
Welcome topics of conversation
General Guidelines
Visitors should try to speak in a calm, moderate, tone of voice at all times.
Usually, your Russian colleagues will be delighted if you make the effort to speak even a few sentences of their language. Nevertheless, if your Russian party speaks your languge, your decision to speak Russian may cause confusion (e.g.--they might think that their English is not good enough).
Russians are sometimes very careful about what they say, and may revert to speaking metaphorically, symbolically, and perhaps even cryptically. Consequently, there is a great deal of reliance on nonverbal communication. At other times, however, they can be extremely frank; it all depends on the situation.
When a Russian touches another person during conversation, it is usually a sign of confidence.
You will sometimes find the Russians to be enthusiastic about discussing politics and the challenges of living in Russia. Participating in this kind of discussion and expressing your views (even if they are opposite) is more welcome than just being an active listener.
Bringing up the subject of Russian culture and history can be an appreciated gesture. Russians are extremely educated--so don't be surprised if they start to talk about the history (more likely than culture) of your own country. Be prepared.
Personal questions are best avoided, although you may be subject to these inquiries. Make the effort to answer these questions as best as you are willing to allow, since your Russian companions may press you for details.
Approach compliments with caution, since they may cause Russians to feel a sense of misplaced obligation. For example, if you are visiting a home and begin enthusiastically admiring a decorative object, your hosts may insist that you take it.
There is tremendous affection for children in this culture; if you are a parent, showing photographs of your children can be an effective way of building good will.
In conversation, it can be permissible to discuss your feelings and hopes for the future. Sometimes, your Russian companions will be far more interested in the personal side of your character than your business agenda.
Talking about art can be complicated for you if you don't know at least background information on world famous Russians such as Tchaikovski, Prokofiev, Tolstoy, Chekov, Pushkin, Malevich, Barishnikov or Plesetskaya. If you become involved in such a conversation, don't be surprised how easily the discussion on Chekov's novels can be changed to Picasso's paintings, Mozart's music or the impact of Yalta Conference in 1943 on the world's history. Russians like to make parallels, find clues and make leads.
If the conversation becomes Greek to you--you can save yourself by asking your Russian friend to fill any gaps in your knowledge on various topics (e.g. the Russian-Japanese issue on Kuril islands,the after effects of Tatar invasion to Russia in the 13th century etc).
Welcome Topics of Conversation
the changes taking place in Russia
current events
World War II
economic difficulties
positive contrasts and comparisons between Russia and your country [let your Russian companions bring up this subject first]
books
films
Topics to Avoid
complaints about Russia
the Holocaust
the Czar and the monarchy
ethnic minorities
religion
comparing/contrasting Russia to other developing countries
comparing/contrasting Moscow and Saint Petersburg
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