The Language of Business

Well aware that Magyar is hardly a
world language, most Hungarian
business people today speak either
English or German, often both.

Here's an article about the unique features of the Hungarian language:
Hungarian - A Strange Cake on the Menu

Business language, foreign language, spoken, written, contracts, sample contracts, contract samples, agreements, business letters,
business correspondence, translators, interpreters, business forms, sample forms, business writing

The Language of Business

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HUNGARIAN
BUSINESS CULTURE
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Habits & Customs | Values, Behavior & Thinking | Business Culture

Hungarian
Culture, Language & Relocation Resources

You can write Hungarians for an appointment in either of those languages.

Before arriving for a meeting it's a good idea to ask whether you should arrange
for an interpreter. Whereas most Hungarian firms employ translators, they don't
always have skilled interpreters on board.

Using a foreign language (even English) may play an important role in your
counterparts' communication patterns.

People who are very good in reading and writing a foreign language, might
encounter hardships in verbal communication. They may not understand as well
as you think they do. Hungarian people will rarely openly admit that they didn't
understand. This can result in serious misunderstandings, that you discover only
later on.

Also, pay attention to your counterpart's facial expression, as Hungarian people
tend to use non-verbal cues when confused, lost or experiencing difficulty. Don't
be afraid to rephrase your sentences and get feedback about their understanding
of the discussion by asking open-ended questions.

Build in some extra time in your meeting plan so you can use this communication
technique as often as needed.

It is always a good idea to put things in writing. Agreements in Hungary are always
in writing. Contracts are negotiated skillfully, signed with blue ink (not black, as
that would appear to be a copy rather than an original), and stamped.

When calling someone to confirm a meeting date, appointment or some other
important matter, it is generally a good idea to follow up with a fax, memo or e-
mail. Especially while discussing technical details on the phone (which often
require a specific vocabulary), give your Hungarian counterpart a chance to
process the information by reading a copy of what you mean or want.

E-mail is gradually becoming an efficient way to speed up communication and
reduce costs. However, it shouldn't take the place of a personal call and its usually
better to implement it once a good relationship is already under way.