Proper Business Etiquette in Brazil

When visiting another country it is important to learn what is acceptable and what may be considered offensive. Below are step by step instructions found on EHow.com

Step 1     Though your business will likely be done in English, learn some Portuguese phrases. Your Brazilian associates will appreciate your making the effort. By all means, don't forget that the national language in Brazil is Portuguese, not Spanish.


Step 2     Dress conservatively and professionally in muted colors for men and women. Light colors are acceptable for summer (December to February). Clean, well-manicured nails are important for women.

Step 3     Be on time, but do not be surprised if your Brazilian hosts take a more relaxed approach to schedules. In the big cities of Rio and Sao Paulo, you may find that being punctual holds more importance than in other regions.

Step 4     Begin the meeting in a leisurely manner, taking some time to make small talk with your Brazilian associates. Jumping right into the meeting is seen as rude, and like other South Americans, Brazilians find it important to know the individuals with whom they are doing business. Building personal relationships is important. In fact, you will probably find that it takes several trips to the country to really get your business going there.

Step 5     Use attractive visuals in your presentation, and make sure you have any materials you intend to distribute translated into Portuguese and English. Be tolerant of interruptions, which often simply show that there is interest in the discussion, and keep your manner nonconfrontational at all times.

Step 6     Be prepared to wait for final decisions. As noted earlier, it may take a while to build the business relationship. Also, in this hierarchical business structure, final word must ultimately come from the highest-ranking executive.

Another good resource for practicing business etiquette in Brazil: http://www.cyborlink.com/besite/brazil.htm

Our team is working hard at learning the language and preparing our presentations, we are confident that we will make a positive and lasting impression on the Brazilians that we have the pleasure of coming in contact with!