Kazakhstan — Business
An experienced and proficient interpreter can be of great assistance at business meetings. It is customary to shake hands and call people by their first names at business meetings, as well as at informal gatherings. Business attire is generally a suit and tie for men, and a suit or business dress for women. Small gifts (pens, company logo pins or books) are frequently given at the end of an initial meeting as a token of appreciation. Business cards are widely distributed, both in Russian and English. Many people in Kazakhstan are Muslim so it is not uncommon for them to take breaks from work during the day for prayer; this should be taken into consideration when scheduling meeting times.




