Business Etiquette in Brazil

Brazilian professionals follow a specific system of etiquette--just another quality that makes the country unique.

If you are planning on doing business in Brazil, it's essential to do some research on the easy-going, friendly business etiquette that is the norm in the country. Learning how to greet professionals upon meetings, or keeping up with the conversation in the boardroom will help you to make a great first impression that could lead to further business deals.

Professional Greetings

Men shake hands with one another when greeting for the first time in professional settings. Direct eye contact should be maintained, and handshakes tend to last a few seconds longer than those in North America. Professional women greet one another by kissing on the cheek--usually there are three kisses, and the women alternate cheeks. When business men and women are greeting one another, it is best for the woman to extend her hand first for the handshake.

Business Attire

In Brazil, men should wear navy blue or black business suits--executives often wear three-piece suits, while office workers and individuals with medium professional rank wear a two-piece suit. Women should dress professionally, yet especially femininely, when doing business in Brazil. Skirt business suits, as well as dresses that are slightly form-fitting are appropriate, and women are expected to have manicured nails. It is also acceptable for women to wear quality accessories to the office, such as necklaces, bracelets, and rings made of precious metals.

Professional Titles and Business Cards

When addressing Brazilian professionals, it is best to refer to them in the same manner you were addressed. For instance, if you are referred to as "Doctor Smith," and your colleague is also a doctor, this reference should be returned. If you are addressed as "Mr." or "Mrs.," it is acceptable to address a Brazilian colleague in the same way. Business cards should be exchanged at the beginning of the meeting, when everyone is introducing themselves to one another. While it is not required, it is ideal to have one side of the business card translated into Portuguese, and to present the Portuguese side of the card to the Brazilian recipient.

Negotiations

In order to come to suitable agreements for the numbers and terms associated with negotiations, it is best for international colleagues to consult Brazilian accountants and attorneys. Hiring a legal professional from another country is considered offensive. Final decisions concerning negotiations may take a while, and it's essential for professionals from other countries to remain calm and professional throughout the entire process; seeming pushy or impatient is seen as rude, and could affect the results of the business deal.

Giving Gifts

It is not customary or required for colleagues to present gifts to one another at an initial meeting. However, if gifts are given at any time, they should not be anything extremely expensive, as this may be interpreted as a bribe. It is not proper etiquette to give gifts in colors such as black or purple in Brazil, as these are the colors of mourning. Flowers and sweets are usually acceptable, but it is best to avoid giving presents that may be perceived as too personal, such as perfume or wallets. Brazilians usually open their gifts immediately after they are received.

References

• Culture Crossing: Brazil
• Cyborlink: Brazil