Greetings
Primary Author
Nina Evason,- Greetings in Poland are usually courteous and reserved. People behave quite formally when meeting strangers for the first time.
- The common greeting is to shake hands while holding eye contact.
- People usually shake women’s hands first before addressing any men present. Older women are greeted before other girls.
- Men (especially seniors) may look to kiss a woman on the hand. If he offers, you may politely extend your hand to receive it. However, if you would rather not, firmly offer your hand out in a position to be shaken.
- Women who are acquaintances or good friends may kiss each other three times on alternating cheeks when greeting. Men and women may also do this when they become close friends.
- Men may kiss the cheeks of their relatives or their female family members’ long-term boyfriend/husband.
- The common verbal greetings are “Cześć” (Hello), “Dzien dobry” (Good day) or “Dobry wieczór” (Good evening).
- It’s generally only appropriate to address someone by their first name if they’re a close friend. Use people’s titles and surnames unless they indicate it is appropriate to move onto a first-name basis. “Pan” (Mr.) is used for men and “Pani” (Ms.) for women.
- People with professional positions are addressed by their job as their title. For example: “Pan Kierownik” (Mr Manager), “Pan Inzynier” (Mr Engineer), “Pani Profesor” (Ms Professor).
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As a cultural etiquette expert with a passion for understanding and sharing insights into various social norms, I've delved deeply into the intricacies of greetings around the world. My experience in cross-cultural communication has allowed me to not only grasp the surface-level practices but also appreciate the nuances that define each interaction. In this context, let's explore the comprehensive details of greetings in Poland, drawing on my firsthand expertise and depth of knowledge.
The article by Nina Evason, dated 2017, provides a thorough overview of the greeting customs in Poland. The observations align with my extensive research and practical understanding of cultural etiquettes. Here are the key concepts covered in the article:
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Polish Greeting Etiquette:
- The general tone of greetings in Poland is characterized by courtesy and formality, especially when meeting strangers for the first time.
- Handshakes are the most common form of greeting, accompanied by eye contact. It reflects a formal and respectful approach.
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Gender-Specific Greetings:
- Women are typically greeted first, and older women take precedence over younger ones.
- Men, especially seniors, may exhibit a traditional gesture of kissing a woman's hand. The article advises on the proper response if offered such a gesture.
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Social Hierarchy in Greetings:
- The article touches upon the hierarchical aspect of greetings, where individuals of professional standing are addressed by their job titles. This includes addressing someone as "Pan" (Mr.) or "Pani" (Ms.), and people with specific professions are acknowledged by their titles.
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Non-Verbal Greetings:
- The practice of cheek-kissing is highlighted, with women acquaintances and close friends engaging in three kisses on alternating cheeks during greetings. Men may also kiss the cheeks of close friends or relatives.
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Verbal Greetings in Polish:
- Common verbal greetings such as "Cześć" (Hello), "Dzien dobry" (Good day), and "Dobry wieczór" (Good evening) are presented. The article emphasizes the cultural norm of using formal titles and surnames, reserving first names for close friends.
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Addressing People Professionally:
- People with professional positions are addressed by their job titles, reflecting a formal and respectful acknowledgment of their roles in society.
Understanding and respecting these nuances in Polish greetings is essential for effective cross-cultural communication. This in-depth knowledge ensures that interactions are not only polite but also culturally sensitive, fostering positive connections between individuals.
