Italian Family Values
• The family is the centre of the social structure and provides a stabilizing influence for its members.
• In the north, generally only the nuclear family lives together; while in the south, the extended family often resides together in one house.
• The family provides both emotional and financial support to its members.
Italian Style
• Appearances matter in Italy.
• The way you dress can indicate your social status, your family's background, and your education level.
• First impressions are lasting impressions in Italy.
• The concept of 'bella figura' or good image is important to Italians.
• They unconsciously assess another person's age and social standing in the first few seconds of meeting them, often before any words are exchanged.
• Clothes are important to Italians.
• They are extremely fashion conscious and judge people on their appearance.
• You will be judged on your clothes, shoes, accessories and the way you carry yourself.
• Bella figura is more than dressing well. It extends to the aura your project too - i.e. confidence, style, demeanour, etc.
Catholicism
• The primary religion in Italy is Roman Catholic.
• There are more Catholic churches per capita in Italy than in any other country.
• Although church attendance is relatively low, the influence of the church is still high.
• Many office buildings will have a cross or a religious statue in the lobby.
• Each day of the year has at least one patron saint associated with it.
• Children are named for a particular saint and celebrate their saint's day as if it were their own birthday.
• Each trade and profession has a patron saint.
• The church promulgates hierarchy, which can be seen in all Italian relationships.
• They respect and defer to those who are older, those who have achieved a level of business success, and those who come from well-connected families.