A typical street in Rome, dotted with both apartments and businesses. Photo by Dean Forbes
The Italian business climate is similar to America, with prices rising,inflation increasing, and gas at about $8 a gallon. Yet, because Italians generally like and respect Americans, your business will feel quite welcome in the country. Furthermore, since the widespread introduction of the Euro in 2002, people are buying more -- so the time is ripe to take a stab at opening that bistro or ristorante of your dreams!
Instructions
Register with the government, just as you would in the U.S.
1. Get a tax ID number for everything from obtaining a business cell phone to joining the Italian equivalent of Sam's Club. This will also allow you to join what is called Metro, which stocks supplies for any business you can think of as well as food,clothing, computer supplies and so forth. Metro stores are peppered throughout Italy, with three in Rome alone.Naturally, your tax ID number is used for a variety of purposes including your U.S. tax forms if you plan to retain U.S. citizenship.Italian businessman Olivier Cater says, too that "it is important to rely on someone who already has a good understanding and experience of the Italian market."He adds that you'll need to rely on what is called a "commercialista" -- someone who will create the company legally, register it at the Chamber of Commerce, prepare fiscal documents, tell you how and where to pay the taxes and other accounting-type minutiae.
2. Network, network, network. In Italy, it is important to know the people. In fact, one Italian business owner said it's "somehow more important who you know than what you know." If you don't know the people, you need to get to Italy for an extended stay. And then go back again. Remember, opening a business is risky - even in the U.S., where you probably have a stronger support network already built in.
3. Take a good look at your odds. Italy, a country of around 62 million people, has an estimated 4 million small businesses, most of which employ fewer than 20 staffers. Therefore, starting a small business in Italy is not unique, and on top of that, most startups fail as in the U.S.
4. Bone up on your Italian. Obviously, it's best if you are fluent, but unless your business is communication (written or verbal) you can probably get by with basic Italian. Besides, the more you live and work there the faster you'll speak like the natives. Barring that, get an Italian-speaking partner. Remember, you need the odds stacked in your favor.
5. The Internet is quite widespread, with most companies in Italy - as in the U.S. - hosting their own web site. Make sure you stay competitive by registering your URL to host a site there. The site will likely end with "it" rather than the "org" or "com" you may be used to here in the States. If you are just getting started, consider starting a homepage on your AOL service or other provider. Make it look as professional as possible by uploading attractive photographs and sporting clear, yet distinctive fonts. Don't keep the mom-and-pop homespun version for too long, though. To compete, you'll need bells and whistles.
6. There are stringent restrictions regarding direct marketing with the Internet. Make sure you check with the local authorities on regulations, which are stricter in Italy than in the U.S.
Tags: important know, Italian business, know people, Make sure, what called