Nicaragua Business Etiquette
U.S. professionals in the coffee and seafood industries do business with Nicaragua quite often, which is just one of the reasons a number of U.S. businesspeople visit Nicaragua to maintain and establish new work-related relationships. It's important to learn the rules of etiquette that come with these transactions in order to present a great first impression to potential business partners.
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Attire
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Suits and ties, as well as business suits for women, are recommended for meetings at financial institutions. This is similar to business attire in the United States, as it gives the impression of respect and professionalism. For all other meetings, it is acceptable for men to wear a button-down shirt with dress slacks or khakis. Women can also wear slacks with a blouse or button-down shirt for more casual meetings. In some industries, jeans are permitted, but it's best to make sure that this is acceptable before showing up to a meeting.
Meetings and Punctuality
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Arrive for any meetings on time, especially if this is your initial consultation with a potential client. This shows respect for the business partner's time. In Nicaragua, most business meetings start between 30 minutes to an hour later than scheduled, since "small talk" is a part of doing business. Many Americans are not used to spending this much time in non-professional conversation with a client, so exhibiting patience and courtesy while participating in casual discussion is very important. During small talk, it's not good etiquette to bring up topics about socioeconomic status, religion or politics. Always let the Nicaraguan host transition the conversation from casual to professional.
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Business Cards
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It is acceptable to offer a Nicaraguan professional a business card, although some businesspeople from the country do not carry them. Present the business card at the beginning of the meeting. While the card is being handed over, it's best to for U.S. businesspeople to repeat their names clearly so that there won't be any confusion in pronunciation.
Handshake
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Nicaraguans do shake hands when being introduced, but this action is often accompanied by other forms of greeting and affection. When people shake hands, the free hand is often on the other person's shoulder or arm. Men who have been doing business with one another for some time may embrace upon meeting. Women greet each other with a kiss on the cheek, and may do the same when departing. Attempting to adopt this custom during an initial meeting will serve as an indication that you are respectful of the culture. Behaving in a cold or distant manner will be seen as a rejection, which won't present the desired favorable first impression.
After the Meeting
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Business meetings in Nicaragua end naturally and are not timed. This is a departure from U.S. professional culture, where these interactions have a specific time slot. Be sure to remember this when doing business in Nicaragua, as rushing away to another professional engagement is considered rude. Stay behind for a few extra minutes to continue talking with potential business partners. This shows a genuine interest, and shows that your next meeting is not more important than your present engagement.
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References
- Photo Credit nicaragua flag icon. (with clipping path) image by Andrey Zyk from Fotolia.com
