Some of the advice on business etiquette is presented by 35 executives from major multinational corporations operating in Russia.
 
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Knowing what to expect can make or break an assignment in this former Communist stronghold.
FORGET ABOUT TEAMS. Nix THE idea of separating personal and professional lives. And for goodness' sake, don't insist that you be
called by your first name.
That is some of the advice dispensed by 35 executives of major multinational companies operating in Russia. The expatriates-from 18
American, 16 European, and one Asian company-were surveyed about their Russian on-the-job experiences by Amrop International Russia,
a division of executive search firm Amrop International Group.
"Expatriate Leadership in Russia: The General Manager's Perspective," the survey's report written by Ekaterina Kimpelainen and
Alexandra Tolstaya, describes a business environment shaped by years of Communist rule.
The expatriates found a highly intelligent workforce that thrives on challenge, but nonetheless prefers rigid rules and a
hierarchical work environment.
Fear of making mistakes and expressing opinions is prevalent.
"A reluctance to participate in open discussions during meetings, the tendency to avoid disagree-- ment with bosses, a lack of
initiative, and a fear of making mistakes characterize the typical behavior pattern," the report states.
Western concepts such as flattened organizational structures and teaming aren't understood or accepted. Russians prefer a strong
boss. Paradoxically, years of Communist caretaking means Russians see that strong boss as someone to turn to for personal advice and
counsel.
"The roots are deep," the report explains. "It was difficult to survive economically and psychologically in Russia without help.
Since people in this country had little autonomy and control over their lives, they expected to be taken care of by the people in
power."