Slovenia Culture Tips
The following tips on culture will be very useful when traveling to Slovenia or when interacting with Slovenians.
+ Slovenia has a polycentric culture where people will go out of their way to change their natural behavior to mirror that of the person with whom they are speaking or doing business.
+ Slovenians prefer to deal indirectly with people they do not know well. This can be demonstrated by offering roundabout explanations rather than give a negative response. As a rule, they prefer non-confrontational business dealings if possible.
+ Business decisions are often based on personal sentiments about the other person. Therefore, it is a good idea to spend time in relationship building.
+ Since the culture is egalitarian, Slovenians do not speak in a condescending manner towards people in service jobs. In fact, they go out of their way to greet and say farewell to shopkeepers and wait staff.
+ For the most part, Slovenians mean and do what they say. They expect foreign businesspeople to keep their word. Failing to do so can cause irreparable harm to a business relationship.
+ Although Slovenians have a good sense of humor, they do not always understand self-deprecating humor. Be cautious when teasing others, as such behavior may be interpreted as putting them down.
+ Slovenia is moderately tolerant of change and risk. Changes are made, although somewhat slowly and after considerable thought, planning and evaluation. Rapid change is perceived as imprudent and resistance to change is considered poor management.
- provided by RW3′s CultureWizard™ Country Profiles
