Networking resources
Contacts get you the meeting; culture gets you the deal. Practical notes from the field on how relationships work in Kazakhstan.
Russian is the default business language; Kazakh use is growing fast, especially in government. English works in energy, mining, finance and IT — but a Russian-speaking colleague or interpreter dramatically widens your reach. Learning a few Kazakh greetings (sälemetsız be — hello, raqmet — thank you) earns real goodwill.
Meetings are formal at first: titles matter, hierarchy matters, and the most senior person speaks for the room. Bring printed materials in Russian and English. Expect tea — accepting it is part of the meeting.
Deals rarely close on the first visit. Consistent follow-up and showing up in person — at exhibitions, forums, association events — is what converts interest into contracts. A local presence or partner accelerates everything.
Cards are still exchanged widely; have one side in Russian. Use full titles (Director, First Deputy, Akim) in correspondence — getting a title wrong is noticed.
Business in Kazakhstan runs on WhatsApp and Telegram far more than email. Once you have a mobile number, a short polite message is normal and effective — many contacts in QazProjects records include WhatsApp lines.
Relationship-building often continues over lunch or dinner. Reciprocate hospitality when partners visit you — it is remembered.
Pick a project, identify the decision-maker, meet them at the next industry event — QazProjects gives you all three.