Brazilian Business Culture & Etiquette
Brazil's economy is steadily improving; the country has become the most economically powerful in South America, according to researchers at MapXL. The growing number of opportunities for business partnerships is one of the reasons that many professionals from other countries are looking to do business with Brazil. Learning a few tips for etiquette can give businesspeople an added degree of success when scheduling negotiations in Brazil.
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Scheduling Meetings
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Professionals who are looking to schedule a business meeting in Brazil should do so at least two weeks in advance. This shows respect for the other party's time, and gives the impression of good time management. It is considered very rude to try to coordinate an impromptu meeting at a governmental or professional organization. It is also important to show up to Brazilian business meetings on time--the actual meeting may have a casual or laid-back feel once it has begun, but punctuality is always a good gesture.
Business Meeting Behavior
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Upon arriving at the meeting, it is proper etiquette to shake hands with everyone in the room, especially if the group is small. Brazilians tend to shake hands for a considerably long time, and a handshake that is distinct but not too firm is usually best. Women greet each other by kissing both cheeks, and this is common even in a business setting, depending on the culture of the office. It is also quite common for Brazilian professionals to address each other by first names, but titles are important, and should most likely be used during the first few minutes of an initial meeting, unless directed to do otherwise.
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What to Say
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Starting a business meeting or negotiation off with casual conversation is very common in Brazil, so it's important for potential business partners to know how to engage in small talk. Talking about subjects such as children or soccer is acceptable in an office setting, but it's best not to bring up the rain forest or politics. It is considered rude to bring up professional or money matters before the host of the meeting does so. Learning a few Portuguese phrases (for example,"'oi," which means "hello," or "amavel encontra lo," which means "nice to meet you") may also be helpful during the meeting, and shows respect for the culture.
After Business Hours
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If the meeting goes well, Brazilian professionals may ask their international counterparts to have dinner or a drink in the evening. It is important to be prepared for the invitation by clearing time in one's schedule for dinner. Evening meals are usually light unless hosted in a formal setting, so professionals from other countries should be aware of this before ordering food. It is also acceptable for the businessperson from another country to offer to pay for lunch or dinner--this should be done instead of bringing a gift to the initial business meeting.
Good First Impressions
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When making travel arrangements for a business meeting in Brazil, it is essential for visitors to the country to stay at the best hotel possible. This will impress Brazilian professionals, and helps to make a good impression in business meetings. Attire for men during professional hours should be a blue or black suit, or slacks and a button-down shirt, depending on the regulations of that particular office. Women should be sure to have their nails manicured, and should dress in attractive clothing, as Brazilian female professionals normally wear form-fitting clothing and high heels to work.
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References
- Photo Credit brazil map image by Goran Bogicevic from Fotolia.com
