Russian Social Rules

In Russia, like in other countries, there are a number of cultural norms and rules of behaviour that vary depending on the region, social situation and relations between people. Here are a few key aspects to keep in mind when communicating:

Forms of address and the use of “ты” and “вы” (you)

In Russia, there is a clear division between forms of address into ‘вы’ (formal) and ‘ты ’ (informal). It is customary to address people of older age, strangers or in an official setting, as well as colleagues at work, unless there is a special agreement to switch to ‘ты’. The transition to ‘ты’ may not be obvious, so it is important to take your time and check with your interlocutor.

Gift-giving

Gift-giving in Russia is often accompanied by some traditions.

It is customary to give gifts on holidays (for example, birthday, New Year, 8 March), as well as on weddings or as a token of gratitude.

It is important that the gift is chosen with the recipient’s preferences in mind.

Intimacy and personal boundaries

Unlike in some countries, people in Russia are not inclined to openly express personal feelings in public places. Kissing, hugging and intimate gestures usually remain within the boundaries of personal space and are more common in private and family situations.

It is important to respect the personal space of the other person and not to impose yourself if the person is not in the mood for intimacy.

Hugging when meeting:

Hugging in Russia can be part of the greeting, but only if you are close enough to the person.

Hugging is most commonly done between women and women or men and men, but it depends on the degree of closeness.

Men and women can hug, but it is more common if the relationship is very close or friendly.

Kissing in greeting:

In Russia, kissing on the cheek when meeting or saying goodbye is quite common, but it depends on the level of closeness between people. Men, as a rule, do not kiss each other in greeting. Women may kiss each other (on both cheeks or one, depending on the situation), but this is more a manifestation of friendship or close relations.

A sight

A direct look in the eyes is a sign of confidence in Russia. It is important to look your interlocutor in the eyes during acquaintance, it is perceived as a sign of honesty and openness. However, an excessively long gaze can be perceived as aggression or intrusiveness.

Smiling as a manifestation of friendliness

In Russia, smiling to strangers is often perceived as unnatural or even suspicious, especially if it appears for no apparent reason.

For example, in large cities such as Moscow or St. Petersburg, people may perceive a smiling stranger as overly open or strange, as in their perception a smile often has to be conditioned by a specific situation (e.g. meeting a friend or in the process of socialising).

In general, Russian etiquette values respect, politeness and attention to others. Although social norms may vary, it is important to always show respect and consideration.