The official language in the country is Italian. But don’t worry if you don’t speak Italian. Out of the 59.6 million population in the country, a substantial amount of 17 million people know how to speak English. The English Proficiency in the country ranks at the 30th spot among 100 other countries in its region, making it moderately knowledgeable of the English language. However, if you are to work in Italy, it is better that you also try to learn their language for better communication. You may take Italian lessons in advance by checking out online learning sites such as Duolingo or Babbel.

Language Skills
Since less than 30% of the population in Italy speaks English, you should expect that unless you know a little Italian, communication with the locals may come as a daily challenge. To start dealing with the challenge in communication, you may want to begin by learning how Italians greet. When greeting a local in an informal manner, you may say ‘Ciao’ which means ‘hello.’ You may also say ‘Buongiorno’ or ‘Buonasera’ which means ‘good day’ and ‘good afternoon’ respectively, to make your greeting just a little formal. To learn how to pronounce these words, and to get some more greeting tips, check out this link.

Body Language
In general, Italians are tactile and may be observed to be more affectionate people compared to other European countries. Locals may be seen standing or discussing less than a meter away from each other and may also be seen kissing, hugging, or just holding hands in public. Unlike other nationalities, the locals in Italy do not take personal space a big deal. You may converse with a local at close proximity or you may also shake a person's hand without reservations when greeting them.

Take note that since Italians are affectionate, it matters to them that their counterparts are not too distant during discussions. They prefer that you talk to them closely than with a huge gap of space in between. They also value direct eye contact and may relate it to sincerity and interest. Some Italians may also stare out of curiosity, however, in the country there is a thin line between staring too long out of curiosity and looking at someone because of their low social status. Just be mindful with initiating eye contact with anyone around you.

Do not take it personal when Italians raise their voice or become more animated than usual in their gestures when discussing. The locals can be very expressive, thus, their non verbals are observed alongside stressing their points. Do not laugh to criticize this trait among Italians, for their being expressive and affectionate is a distinct part of their culture.

Topics for Discussion
Italians take pride in their cuisine that is popular all around the globe. To get a conversation started over a meal, you may want to compliment the local food by saying ‘Questo ciao e motto buono,’ which means ‘this food is very good!’ Praising the local cuisine is music to an Italian’s ears, so go ahead and be generous in telling your wonderful experience of Italy's local foods.

You may also recall that Italians love their football sport. Don’t miss reading about the local football team because your local counterpart may be excited to tell you about it. Take note of the most recent wins of their team and compliment the players by mentioning some of their good players. When you start the conversation about football, you won’t get wrong in having a smooth conversation all throughout.

While there are topics that can get you a good conversation, there are also those that you should avoid. One of them is sharing criticisms about the unusual culture in the country, such as living with parents at an old age. Italians often stay with their parents regardless of age, and it will be taken as an insult if you ask ‘why.’ Also avoid asking whether a local voted for the known tax convict Berlusconi, because the politician still has millions of supporters and may be offended with the question. Lastly, do not question the English Proficiency of Italians. The locals are aware that in comparison with other European countries, they may be behind when it comes to speaking English. Be kind to your local counterpart and only bring up the good topics on sports, food, and travel.