Austria: Business Environment
New Year's Day | January 1, Tuesday |
Epiphany | January 6, Sunday |
Easter Monday | In March - April |
Labor Day | May 1, Thursday |
Corpus Christi Day | In May-June |
Assumption Day | August 15, Friday |
National Day | October 26, Sunday |
All Saints Day | November 1, Saturday |
Immaculate Conception | December 8, Monday |
Christmas Day | December 25, Thursday |
St. Stephen's Day | December 26, Friday |
The vacation season in Austria is July and August. During this period, many decision-makers are on vacation, generally for 3-4 weeks. Thus business visits or events are not recommended during these two months. | July and August |
Austrian business culture has a well-defined and strictly observed, vertically structured hierarchy, with closely defined responsibilities and distinctions between roles and departments. Decisions are made at the top of the company and in private.
Austrians generally do not need a personal relationship in order to start a business. The need for efficiency implies that long courtesy discussions are avoided. Building a relationship requires demonstrating a sincere interest in the country and the people, so you should research the history, culture and identity of Austria. Following an established protocol is critical to building and maintaining business relationships.
Presentations should be accurate and precise, and backed-up by appropriate material. Austrians may be meticulous about details and may want to understand every innuendo before coming to agreement. It is essential to be patient because business is conducted slowly.
Austrians are usually direct communicators but any confrontational behaviour or high-pressure tactics must be avoided. It is also imperative to exercise good manners and to avoid jokes, as the focus is on work and accomplishing business objectives.You can expect a lot of written communication.
Business meals are a great way to establish a personal acquaintance, but actual business is not conducted during lunch or dinner. The person who extends the invitation pays the bill in a restaurant.
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Latest Update: July 2024