Business Etiquette in Pakistan

Pakistan's business etiquette is quite formal and should be observed correctly to make a good impression.

Pakistan is continually growing in economic power and is ranked 27th in the world in purchasing power, according to Economy Watch.com. Countries such as China and the United States often form business deals with professionals in Pakistan, so international professionals should be aware of the etiquette that should be observed in the country to maintain a positive reputation.

Business Attire

Dress for both men and women is rather conservative when in a business setting. Men should wear black or navy blue business suits and shoes that are easy to slip off if required before entering a meeting site. Women can also wear business suits in the same colors, or blouses and modest skirts. It is not appropriate for women to wear tight-fitting clothing or sleeveless dresses or shirts.

Professional Titles and Business Cards

When doing business in Pakistan, it is best to wait until invited to use first names when addressing colleagues. Professionals in the country should be addressed as Mr. or Ms. followed by their clan name, and the title Sahib (masculine) or Begum (feminine). When exchanging business cards with businesspeople in Pakistan, it is proper etiquette to use the right hand, or both hands, but never the left hand alone. As a good gesture, colleagues should look over the card for a few seconds before tucking it away.

Punctuality and Business Meetings

It is essential to arrive for a business meeting on time in Pakistan--both international and local professionals are expected to be punctual. Before the meeting officially begins, it is customary to greet all colleagues, starting with the person who has the highest professional rank. Small talk is traditional as well, but usually does not last for more than 10 minutes. According to Pakistani etiquette, it is appropriate for the client, or the person who will be doing most of the purchasing in the business deal, to start and end the meeting.

Negotiations

Pakistani professionals include bargaining in their negotiation process, so international professionals are expected to do the same. It is best for all businesspeople to remain calm during negotiations, as being harsh or overly persuasive is considered bad etiquette. Professionals in Pakistan will often take a considerable amount of time to reach a final decision, so exercising patience is important.

Giving Gifts

It is not customary to present a Pakistani businessperson with a gift at the first meeting. However, if invited to the home of a professional in Pakistan, it is proper etiquette to present the host of the home with pastries, chocolates or flowers--it is not acceptable to present the host with alcohol of any kind. Gifts are usually opened in private and should always be presented with both hands.

References

• Economy Watch: Pakistan Economy
• Culture Crossing: Pakistan