Brazilian Business Etiquette
If you're interested in establishing professional connections with businesspeople in Brazil, it's essential to learn some basic rules of etiquette for the country before your trip. Brazilian business culture is built on good reputations and first impressions, so displaying both a friendly demeanor and corporate mindset is important.
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Giving Gifts
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While people from some cultures accept gifts from visitors during the initial business meeting, it is not necessary to bring a gift to a first professional meeting in Brazil. At the second or third meeting, it is acceptable to present Brazilian professionals with gifts, but gifts that are too practical, such as wallets or purses, are deemed inappropriately personal. Brazilians may perceive expensive gifts as bribes, and this can negatively affect the business relationship. International business partners should also avoid presenting Brazilian businesspeople with gifts that are purple or black, as these are the colors of mourning in the country.
Negotiating
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Professionals in Brazil will take both skill and interpersonal chemistry into consideration when negotiating a business deal; however, chemistry is the more prominent deciding factor. Behaving in a confrontational or overly persuasive manner in a business meeting will likely not result in a business deal. Brazilians handle professional dealings with a level head and do not push personal agendas. If a lawyer or accountant is needed for the business deal, choose one who is Brazilian to avoid being offensive.
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Attire
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Professional and fashionable appearance is of great importance to Brazilians. Men should wear dark blue or black business suits to professional engagements. A man who wears a three-piece suit is usually an executive. Women are expected to wear business attire that is especially feminine, yet appropriate for the workplace--lace or satin materials are acceptable, and manicures are recommended. Casual fabrics like denim are usually not allowed in a business setting, unless the company incorporates jeans as part of the dress code.
Business Cards and Professional Titles
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When entering a business meeting in Brazil, exchange business cards during the introductions, before everyone sits down to formally begin the meeting. While it is not a requirement, it is considered good taste to print one side of the business card in Portuguese. This side should face the recipient when the business card is presented. When addressing an executive in the business meeting, use the title that other professionals are using for that individual. Always address an older person as Mr., Mrs. or Ms. and the person's last name.
Additional Information
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Many Brazilian professionals like to engage in small talk for a few minutes before the official meeting begins. Participation in these conversations is a sign of good manners, as it is rude to bring up professional matters before the meeting's host does. Talking about issues such as poverty and religion are considered unacceptable in the workplace, especially at initial meetings. After trust has been established, you might discuss these topics in some professional settings.
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References
- Photo Credit brazil flag button image by Andrey Zyk from Fotolia.com
