Letters of introduction are extremely useful for establishing contact with businesses in Poland, where practices are still quite formal. Meetings should be by appointment. Presentations should be thoroughly prepared and, at least, the executive summary should be translated into Polish. Decisions are often by committee, so negotiations may be protracted, and a deal cannot usually be confirmed until all parties have signed.

Until familiarity has been established, a person's title and surname should be used in addressing them. Shaking hands is customary and business cards (preferably translated) should be exchanged with all participants at a meeting. A conservative business suit is the recommended dress.

Breakfast meetings are rare, despite the fact that the business day begins early. Business lunches and dinners are popular and Poles love to stay up late, talking and drinking. The person who issues the invitation is generally the one who pays the bill. It is important for visitors to make sure that if offering flowers (which is common and highly recommended, especially when visiting a private home), it's customary to give in an odd number.

Government offices are open 0830/0900 to 1600/1630. Traditionally, offices in major industries used to be open 0700 to 1500, but many are now adapting to more Western business hours (even 0830 to 1700). Some businesses may open on Saturday morning as well.