When conversing with representatives of different cultures, it is pivotal to take into account their etiquette rules. This paper provides several recommendations for conversing with British (mainly English) and Brazilian people.
British (and specifically English) people can be expected to be Christian, highly individualistic, rank high on Masculinity (according to Hofstede’s dimensions), but rank low on power distance, uncertainty avoidance, and long-term orientation (“The United Kingdom,” n.d.). It is paramount to be highly punctual, even arrive several minutes early, wearing conservative business attire. Also, one should not breach the privacy of English individuals, respect their personal space, and not maintain eye contact. In addition, it is not recommended to rush English people into making decisions. Also, it is advised not to talk about work when socializing after work hours (“United Kingdom,” n.d.). Finally, it is important that citizens of the U.K. do not consider themselves Europeans, and individuals from Northern Ireland, Wales, or Scotland may become offended if they are called English (“United Kingdom,” n.d.).
Simultaneously, the representatives from Brazil can be expected to be predominantly Roman Catholic (“Brazil,” n.d.). When it comes to Hofstede’s dimensions, Brazilians score high on uncertainty avoidance, power distance, and long-term orientation; they have quite low scores on individualism (“Brazil,” n.d.). When conversing with Brazilians, males should wear a three-piece suit (for executives); females are also expected to dress conservatively (“Brazil,” n.d.). It is critical to make appointments in advance (at least two weeks before the meeting), not to begin business discussions before the host, and to be on time for a business meeting (in San Paulo and Rio-de-Janeiro). Males should shake hands, whereas females “kiss” by placing their cheeks on one another and kissing the air (“Brazil,” n.d.). Brazilians tend to establish long-term relationships, which is paramount in business.
All in all, it is important to wear formal attire and be on time for meetings. Nevertheless, the behaviors practiced with the English and Brazilians should differ: English should not be rushed, whereas Brazilians may be expected to commit to long-term partnership; the privacy of the English should be respected, whereas Brazilians may like informality and view interruptions as enthusiasm. Also, certain gestures (“victory” for English and “OK” for Brazilians) should always be avoided.
References
Brazil business etiquette & culture. (n.d.). Web.
United Kingdom – Britain – England business etiquette, culture, & manners. (n.d.). Web.