Business Etiquette in South America
Proper business etiquette varies by region, and sometimes within the regions themselves. In South America, many countries share similar business etiquette. To be ready for business transactions in South America, there are some key rules you need to be aware of to prevent misunderstandings or delays.
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Greetings
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When greeting business counterparts in South America, there are several common characteristics. In most countries, you should wait for your host to introduce you to others. First greet the person who is the eldest or who has the highest position. A handshake and eye contact is usually the appropriate greeting. Use formal names and honorifics until your counterpart begins to use a more informal name with you.
Business Cards
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It is common for business cards to be exchanged during the first meeting. In most cases, you should have two sides to your business card: English and Spanish. In Brazil, you should have English and Portuguese on the card. It is recommended by Kwintessential, an intercultural communications company, you present the business card with the native speaker’s language facing up. In countries such as Venezuela, you should include your education and professional status on the business card
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Punctuality
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In almost all of South America, punctuality is only expected of you. Your South American counterparts will usually be late to meetings, although they will see themselves as being on time. Venezuela is an exception to this rule. Most Venezuelan business professionals arrive on time to meetings. Regardless of their punctuality, you are expected to arrive on time.
Meetings
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According to Kwintessential, almost every business meeting in South America begins with small talk. Most will also end with small talk. Business dosn't begin until after your counterparts have learned more about you and have become more comfortable. Because punctuality is less important to South Americans, your business transactions will take time and debate, regardless of deadlines. You will have to be tactful in attempting to get your transaction completed in the time allotted.
Holidays
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Holidays across the continent include: New Year’s Day (Jan. 1), Labor Day (May 1), Columbus Day (Oct. 12) and New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31). Every country also has a variety of other holidays throughout the year to celebrate Independence Day, Patron Saint Day and other events. The two weeks around Christmas and Easter are also times not to schedule business transactions, as many South Americans are on holiday.
Attire
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Business dress code is similar to the United States. Your accessories need to be of good quality, as South Americans tend to notice accessories and treat you according to how you appear. According to Martin and Cheney, residents of the east coast dress more informally than those on the west coast.
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References
- Photo Credit south america image by NataV from Fotolia.com
