Doing Business in Turkey, Proper Gestures and Body Language

I found this on businessinturkey.com

Proper Gestures & Body Language

Shake hands firmly when greeting or being introduced to a Turkish man. It is not customary to shake hands again upon departure. It is not common to say things like “Hi” or “Good Morning” to people you don’t know, while passing them in hallways or streets. They may get the wrong impression since they are not used to it. Turks may greet a close friend of either sex with a two-handed handshake and/or a kiss on both cheeks. Elders are highly respected in Turkey. If you are seated, rise to greet them when they enter a room. When being introduced to a group of men, shake hands with each one, starting with the one who appears to be oldest. Keep both feet flat on the ground when sitting. Displaying the soles of your shoes or feet to someone is insulting. It is generally impolite for women to cross their legs while facing another person. Try not to cross your arms or put your hands in your pockets while facing or talking to someone. The U.S. gesture for ‘no’ [wagging the head from side to side] is a common Turkish gesture for ‘I don’t understand.’ Usually, Turks will wave the head vertically, and backwards to say no. It is considered rude to point your finger directly at someone.