Turkey: Conversation

From ExecutivePlanet.com

Welcome topics of conversation

At initial meetings, it is a good idea to get to know your Turkish counterpart on a personal level.

Ask about his/her family without prying. Questions about children will be welcomed.

Find out about their work, role and company.

The Turks are proud of their country and will enjoy answering questions on their culture and history--although be sure to avoid political history.

Most Turkish men love football [soccer] and usually support one of three teams: Galatasaray, Beşiktaş or Fenerbahçe. Asking after their team's recent fortunes will always produce lively and animated responses.

Turks follow current affairs closely and will usually be opinionated.

Topics to Avoid

Avoid giving opinions over sensitive issues involving Turkey, especially Turko-Kurdish relations, the Cyprus issue and EU membership.

Turkey has had a turbulent political history which may be best left in the past. Try and avoid this subject as a whole.

There is a West-East divide in Turkey on the issue of Islam. Generally, the Eastern Turks are a lot more conservative due to their closer adherence to Islamic values. Western Turks, especially those in Istanbul, Ankara or Izmir are usually a lot more westernized. Islam takes on more of a cultural feel rather than a religious one. Depending on where you are, be careful how you approach any topic about Islam.

Submit a Comment on this Article