Russia is a multi-ethnic country in which different ethnic groups inhabit different geographic regions. However, we can expect considerable agreement among people in the country’s metropolitan areas in communication style. Consider the following nonverbal behaviors as a rule of thumb, given that they are stereotypes of how Russian people behave. Remember to interact
mindfully with people who are different from you—consider that you are interacting with the person in the moment which may not represent how the individual typically behaves. This will allow his or her particular personal identity to emerge during your interaction.

1. Russians are demonstrative people and public physical contact is common.

2. Russians stand close when talking.

3. Russians are generally very serious, especially in business.

4. Be careful with hand gestures. What is appropriate for your country may be derogatory in theirs.

5. Do not speak or laugh loudly in public.

6. Do not whistle in a building.

7. Remove your gloves before shaking hands.

8. Guests who leave food on their plates honor the hosts.

9. Never refuse an invitation to Russian’s country home.

10. Shoes are often removed after entering a home, and guests are given slippers to wear.

Based on: Bosrock, Mary Murray. Put Your Best Foot Forward: Asia: A Fearless Guide to International Communication and Behavior (St. Paul, MN: International Education Systems, 1997).