Job Discussion Forums

[Qaaolchoura]

So I think a large part of the reason I got fired in Korea is that I had some coworker issues, especially with Korean co-workers. Part of this is that I'm not the most perceptive individual when it comes to getting social rules, and part is that I refused to go out drinking, and never got to observe the behavior of Korean men up close.

Naturally, I'm determined to avoid making the same mistake in Turkey, but I have a tendency to overthink things, and focus on every little nuance.

First of all, could anybody tell me some of the big mistakes foreigners make in Turkey?

Also, I know that Turkey is the most irreverent of Muslim countries when it comes to alcohol, but I also know that it's becoming more conservative (and unlike Korea and Hong Kong, there are actually soft drinks on the menu). Is Turkey a place where I would be expected to at least pretend to drink? If not, is there another way I should get to know and observe the social behavior of Turkish men?

Additionally, are there any big double standards for foreigners to watch out as there are in East Asia?

And most pertinent to the present, is there anything I should keep in mind when going to a job interview. Is eye contact good or bad, for instance?

Thanks and regards,
~Q

[coffeespoonman]

Not drinking certainly won't hurt your professional reputation, though you should make an effort to socialize if that's the culture at your establishment, even if you just drink Coca-Cola. The biggest piece of advice I could give you is to make sure you always say hello, always smile, and always make small talk with everyone. Turks are warm people, and despite how good you are at your job, if you just go in and do it while keeping to yourself, you'll seem unfriendly and aloof. Learn a bit of Turkish and ask questions about the language and culture. Show that you're interested in them and their country, and you'll be golden.

[tarte tatin]

I have lived in Korea and also had an issue with a Korean co-worker. It is incredibly easy there to cause offence without the least intention. Drinking in Korea is almost mandatory for males but it certainly isn't here.

I get on with my Turkish co-workers and boss but some of my native speaking colleagues have had problems. A lot arises from trying to push their rules (no cheating, punctuality, grading inflexibly) onto the culture here and it is not appreciated. Also working on your own initiative is not considered favourably in many instances. If you have complaints about Turkey (and you will) the staffroom or service bus is not the place to vent them.

Please also remember that Turkey is a conservative society and however Western your co-workers appear they will not like someone swearing or making jokes of a sexual nature in mixed company.

I have also found that Turks tend to have much stronger feelings about people and they show them. So whereas I will get on with everyone politely but a fair amount of inner indifference, Turks seem to either love people or despise them. I have noticed this especially with Turkish women. Of course there are always exceptions but I think this is the case in my workplace.

The advice you have already had is very good, be warm and friendly. Some Turkish people are cold, but on the whole they like warm, smiley people. Take an interest in what they are interested in and try to fall in with social graces. E.g. when you sit down to eat say 'afiyet olsun'.

I am sure you will be fine. It sounds as if your experiences in Korea have knocked your confidence. On the whole, Turkey is a pleasanter place to live than Korea.

[tarte tatin]

Another thing I forgot to mention is salary. In many workplaces it is much higher for native English speakers than for Turkish employees. Most know this and it is usually not talked about, but understandably resented.

Try to avoid talking about expensive restaurants you have been to or any activities that your salary allows, but theirs wouldn't.

[OverseasTeacher]

Excellent advice on the issue of disparity in pay btw locals and overseas hires. It is always the elephant in the room, and best played down. As stated earlier it is common knowledge, so don't rub salt in the wound. I have found that small gifts from places I have travelled takes some of the sting out of the fact I am able to take nice holidays. It doesn't have to be expensive, but perhaps something that shows you know a particular persons interests or perhaps something for their child. Small gestures are greatly appreciated here. Also contributing to the coffe klatch from time to time with inexpensive treats is a big winner I have found.