Lebanon Business Etiquette
Lebanon often does business with countries like Switzerland and Syria, and the country manufactures a number of quality items, including construction materials, jewelry and textiles. Professionals who are doing business in Lebanon from other countries should be aware of the somewhat conservative etiquette that is common in the country in order to make a great first impression.
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Professional Attire
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Western business clothing is acceptable when conducting professional meetings in parts of Lebanon such as Mt. Lebanon and Beirut. Attire such as black or dark blue business suits are acceptable for both genders, and women are permitted to wear pants. It is important to be well-groomed; women should be fully made-up and wear a significant amount of accessories to work. In more rural areas of Lebanon, it is best for women to dress especially conservatively; pants should not be at all form-fitting, dresses and skirts should be below the knee, and sleeveless shirts and blouses should be avoided.
Professional Greetings
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When professional Lebanon men greet one another, a firm handshake is acceptable. When greeting someone who is of Islamic descent, it is appropriate to say ‘Salaamu Aleikum,' which means 'Peace be upon you.' Women shake hands with one another in professional settings as well, but may also kiss on the cheek three times, alternating cheeks. Devout Muslims do not shake hands with members of the opposite sex; when greeting Islamic professionals, it is best to extend a nod of acknowledgement, especially if the Muslim folds his hands across his chest, which indicates that a handshake is not appropriate.
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Punctuality and Business Meetings
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It is best to call ahead to arrange a business meeting with Lebanese professionals before arriving in the country; however, short-notice meetings can be arranged in some cases, particularly when the meeting will result in a favorable business deal. While times are agreed upon for business meetings, it is common for professionals to show up a few minutes late. During negotiations, it is considered an 'amateur' move to be forthright about the actual price of an item or service, since a significant amount of bargaining is expected.
Professional Titles and Business Cards
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Business cards should always be exchanged at business meetings. There isn't a formal method for giving or receiving business cards, but the cards should be treated with respect, i.e. no folding, tearing, or writing on the cards. When addressing Lebanese professionals, it is best to use Mr., Mrs., or Miss, followed by last name, until invited to use first names. Executives and those with higher professional rank should be addressed by the title 'uztaz', which means 'sir,' followed by their last name.
Giving Gifts
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It is not customary to exchange gifts at an initial business meeting in Lebanon. It is best not to offer a gift with the left hand, as this is considered inappropriate in the Muslim religion. Gifts should not be extremely expensive, as costly gifts are considered a bribe in Lebanon. When invited to the home of a Lebanese professional, it is appropriate to bring flowers, and sweets or pastries are acceptable to present if invited for a meal. If the family has children, it is a nice gesture to bring candies for the children of the home.
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References
- Photo Credit lebanon flag button image by Andrey Zyk from Fotolia.com
