Working in Brazil

Nowadays, due to the blooming Brazilian economy, and the simultaneous decrease of job opportunities in other countries, there is an increasing interest in Brazil from foreign professionals.

Brazil is recognized for having a diverse and inclusive culture. Brazilians are friendly and try to establish a good relationship with foreigners coming from any country.

Here are some cultural tips regarding RELATIONSHIPS and COMMUNICATION in the Brazilian business context:

- It is very common to identify a company by referring to the name of its General Manager, VP or director.

- The reputation of senior leaders of any organization adds value to the company's reputation in the Brazilian market. Today, with the use of the different social media, this becomes even more visible and relevant.

- The job title and to whom someone reports to in the organization's hierarchy, are highly valued in Brazil as symbols of status.

- Knowledge and years of experience are key reference points regarding the individual with whom Brazilians do business.

- Brazilians prefer face-to-face meetings, and oral over written communication, as these allow them to know the person with whom they are doing business. However, when it comes to business agreements, Brazilians insist on written and detailed legal contracts.

- Communication is often informal and does not rely on strict rules of protocol. Anyone who feels they have something valuable to say will generally add their opinion, regardless of job level.

- In certain situations, it is considered acceptable to interrupt someone who is speaking as long as the person adds to the same subject. Do not take it as a gesture of disrespect.

If you are considering to live in Brazil, the Expat Exchange webpage is a helpful one: http://www.expatexchange.com/expat/index.cfm?frmid=179