Business Etiquette in Madagascar
Madagascar's economy is largely agriculture-based and the country is a popular tourist attraction. Due to the government's efforts to make the country financially appealing, professionals in Madagascar are doing more business with individuals from other countries. Being aware of proper etiquette while in Madagascar will help professionals make a favorable impression
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Business Attire
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It is acceptable for professionals to wear business casual clothing in Madagascar. Men do not have to wear suits, but slacks and a collared shirt--long or short sleeve--are recommended. Women can wear skirts and blouses to the office, but the skirt should not be above the knee and sleeveless blouses should be avoided. It is also important for women to wear modest accessories in the workplace. A watch, wedding ring and small earrings are usually sufficient.
Business Cards and Professional Titles
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Business cards are not of great importance to professionals in Madagascar. Few people carry them around, so it is common to have a meeting where the cards are not exchanged. However, it is best to treat the business card with respect when receiving one. It is acceptable etiquette to give a card to a few colleagues in the meeting to provide your contact information. It is not proper etiquette to write on the business cards with red ink, as this color is viewed negatively in the country. When addressing a Malagasy businessperson, it is most appropriate to use titles like Madame in place of misses, Monsieur in place of mister or Dokotera in place of doctor, unless invited to do otherwise.
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Punctuality
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International professionals should always be on time for meetings and professional appointments in Madagascar. However, it is common for businesspeople from other countries to be kept waiting a few additional minutes for all Malagasy professionals to arrive. Even in rural parts of the country, it is not acceptable to be late. Handshakes are the most common greeting for professionals and should be extended at the beginning of the meeting. Men are also permitted to shake hands with women.
Negotiating and Bargaining
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If vendors at the market or other professionals can tell that a businessperson is not from Madagascar, the vendor might double or triple the price of an item for a foreigner. The price will often be lowered if the foreign professional attempts to speak in the native language of the country. Even in business deals, it is customary to act with disapproval or disgust when the first price is offered so that the bargaining can begin.
Giving Gifts
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In Madagascar, professionals do not usually exchange gifts with one another, so international businesspeople are not expected to bring presents to meetings. However, if a foreign professional is staying with a host family, it is a nice gesture to present the family, or the man and woman of the house, with a small gift. Souvenirs from the professional's home country, as well as candy, are acceptable gifts.
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References
- Photo Credit drapeau de madagascar image by Charly from Fotolia.com
