Iraq Business Etiquette
The oil industry is the dominant force that drives Iraq's economy, which makes doing business in the country attractive for many international professionals. Practicing acceptable Iraq business etiquette helps businesspeople from other countries make a good impression, which can lead to beneficial partnerships.
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Before the Meeting
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It is customary for Iraqi professionals to exchange business cards; businesspeople visiting from another country should print one side of their business cards in Arabic or Kurdish (if in the Kurdish region of Iraq) and one side in English. Iraqi businesspeople also engage in small talk before beginning a professional meeting. It is proper etiquette to participate actively in these conversations, and not to show exasperation if the business meeting does not start right away. Small talk is the way Iraqi professionals analyze a person's character and disposition to determine if they are trustworthy in business.
During the Meeting
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The Iraqi host will begin the business meeting and begin discussing proposals and potential mergers once small talk has died down. Businesspeople in Iraq are diplomatic and tactful when discussing business; it is improper etiquette to be extremely direct or curt in a business meeting. It may take a while for Iraqi professionals to reach a decision on a professional matter; international meeting participants should exercise patience and refrain from being overly persuasive.
The international visitor is always the one who adjourns the meeting; it is considered rude for the host or another Iraqi native to end the meeting, as this is comparable to throwing a guest out of one's home in Iraqi culture.
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Negotiations
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Although Iraqi businesspeople do not conduct business harshly, professionals are expected to do some bargaining when it comes to money. More often than not, the final price for a service or purchase is much different from the original price offered. It is acceptable to show emotion, and even to be humorous, during negotiations, and this is expected. Establishing good relationships with professionals in Iraq is essential, as Iraqis are much more comfortable doing business with someone they consider a friend.
Scheduling Meetings
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It is best to schedule meetings in Iraq in advance; business hours are normally Saturday through Thursday, from 8 a.m until 2 p.m. Fridays are the sabbath for Muslims and are considered a day of rest; offices are usually closed. During Ramadan, a holy time for Muslims throughout the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, office hours are reduced, so it is best to schedule meetings before or after this time.
Gift-Giving
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Iraqi professionals do not expect gifts from international professionals, but gifts are welcome if they are not extremely expensive; promotional gifts are acceptable to present. Gifts should be especially affordable when they are presented to Iraqi government officials, so that the presents are not misinterpreted as bribes. More extravagant gifts will be better received if an international businessperson has formed a relationship with an Iraqi professional, but all gifts are generally opened in private.
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References
- Photo Credit iraq flag button image by Andrey Zyk from Fotolia.com
