Culture Shock in Poland
An expat moving to Poland will most likely be surprised by the degree to which their experience contrasts with the common stereotypes that prevail about the country: casting it as a communist wasteland, devoid of culture, and populated by insular, unfriendly alcoholics.
Since 1989, Poland has changed its political system, survived a process of severe financial reform, and emerged as the only EU member state to avoid recession in 2009. These achievements have coincided with the rise of Poland as an increasingly popular European tourist destination.
Although recent surveys have shown that only 8 percent of Poles claim to know a foreign language, the proliferation of language schools in the country means that the situation is improving day-by-day. Members of the younger generation in Poland all have at least a basic command of English – more than enough for expats to make themselves understood in stores, or on the street. Moreover, expats will be relieved to know that Poles are hospitable towards foreigners, and very helpful to those who attempt even poorly-spoken Polish. A few words, even wrongly pronounced, can go a long way toward making new friends in Poland.
According to statistics, 90 percent of Poles are Roman Catholics, and the strong claim the Catholic Church has upon Polish identity might be a little uncomfortable for expats who are relocating from more secularised states. A good example of this is the Polish institution of 'name days', which are more celebrated than individual birthdays, and refer instead to the birthday of the Saint after which the individual is named. However, irreligious expats will be relieved to know that proselytising is not common practice in Poland.
On the cultural front, Poland has far more to offer than is commonly acknowledged. Expats who love music and theatre will find an inexhaustible amount of options available to them in the bigger towns and cities of Poland – be sure to catch a cabaret or two, as the country is famous for them. During summer, there are plenty of outdoor cultural events one can attend for free, and all films in the cinema (except those for children) are shown in the original version, with subtitles in Polish. Finally, restaurants in contemporary Poland, especially those in the urban areas, offer a full range of international dining options – so even those who don't like Polish cooking won't starve.
Business in Poland is generally conducted formally, and with due regard to the high standards of professional conduct set by western European nations. Traditionally, men wear dark suits and black shoes, and limit accessories to wedding rings. Punctuality is expected. Expats should note that 'small talk' – initiated by the host – often precedes business meetings, and is considered an important part of the relationship-building process.
This social formality also extends beyond the business realm: Poles are generally brought up to value chivalry, bearing flowers when invited to someone's home, and using a person's title until invited to dispense with it. The custom of kissing a woman's hand upon meeting them is slowly going out of fashion, but no well-raised Polish man will walk through a doorway before first allowing a woman to pass through it.
The most persistent of stereotypes about Poland – that all Poles are unfriendly, truculent, or unceasingly negative – is a long way from the truth. Although Poland has had a long history of violence and oppression, and many Poles have spent most of their lives living in want of basic things like sugar and razor blades, Polish people have a wonderful ability to laugh at themselves, and to always find the humour in a given situation. Expats with a dry sense of humour will be delighted to know that sarcasm is almost considered an art-form in Poland.
Overall, the Poles are a very proud nation of individuals, who keep their past close in their minds, and are anxious to change their future for the better. Expats considering a move to Poland should rid their imaginations of the negative stereotypes that have been attached to the country over the years, and give this interesting, compelling country a fair chance.
