Business Etiquette in Haiti
The Haitian economy thrives on agriculture, as well as electrical machinery and petroleum. Professionals in Haiti do business with people in other countries often, so being aware of the etiquette rules acceptable in the country is important for international businesspeople to make a favorable impression.
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Attire
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Business attire is usually more casual in rural areas than in urban parts of Haiti; however, shorts are not permitted in any business setting. Men are expected to wear a shirt and tie and slacks--a suit is not required. Women can wear a pants suit to business meetings, or a blazer and skirt. Haitian professionals value a clean and polished appearance, so being well-groomed is a must.
Business Cards
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It is acceptable to present business cards at the beginning of a Haitian business meeting; bringing a folder or small billfold for keeping business cards makes a good impression as well. There is no specific method for exchanging business cards in Haiti, but it's always best to treat the card with respect, that is, no folding the business card or writing additional numbers on it. International professionals should also translate one side of the business card into French.
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Scheduling Meetings
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Business hours in Haiti are from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; business meetings should be made ahead of time in all cases. Punctuality is appreciated. If a professional will be late for any reason, acceptable etiquette requires contacting the receptionist of the office to reschedule a meeting time. It is always best to anticipate that a considerable amount of time will be spent in small talk before the meeting officially begins. Talking to professionals about their families is acceptable, but avoid discussing politics until forming a relationship.
Negotiations
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Haitian professionals enjoy negotiations and are often dramatic in negotiation proceedings. It is common for businesspeople to act as though they are offended when they are offered an initial price. In most cases, the professional who attracts the most attention in the negotiation process wins. Businesspeople in Haiti are also not direct in their speech; they will commonly speak in parables to make a point, so international colleagues should exercise patience and refrain from harsh or abrasive language in negotiations.
After Business Hours
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It is common for Haitian professionals to treat their international visitors to a business lunch or dinner. Maintaining small talk, as well as answering any business-related questions, is expected during the meal. Haitian professionals also expect to have this favor returned, so businesspeople from other countries should make arrangements to have a meal at the hotel they are staying in or a nearby restaurant before leaving Haiti.
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References
- Photo Credit haiti flag button image by Andrey Zyk from Fotolia.com
