Business Etiquette in Brazil

There are some cultural hints that are very useful when doing business with Brazil:

• Exchange business card during introduction at meetings.
• Brazilians fell more confortable doing business with who they know, and the individuals are more important than the companies.
• Mettings are conducted at a casual, unhuried pace. Take time to build the relationship and wait for your Brazilian colleagues to raise the business subject.
• When it comes to contracts, Brazilians are very detail oriented. Expect a great deal of time reviewing details.
• Be on time for a formal meeting, but prepare to wait for your Brazilian colleagues, as they usually see time as something outside their control and are extremely casual about it.  No worries. Enjoy your time.
• Brazilians are expressive and passionate conversationalists. Expect to be interrupted while you are speaking or making a presentation.
• Appearance counts: Stay at a nice hotel and dress elegantly, because it will reflect upon you and your company.
• Mainly in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Brasilia, during business situations, men should wear conservative dark suits, shirts and ties. Three piece suits indicate executives; two piece suits indicate office workers. Women should wear feminine dresses, suits and pantsuits and avoid "dressing like a man."
• Shoes should be stylish, polished and well-kept. Nails should be manicured.