Brazilian Adaptation

When dealing with business matters in another country or with professionals from another country, it is important to recognize any cultural differences that could cause potential problems if not handled properly. Communication styles can vary drastically between the cultural divides of our great planet. Verbal, as well as nonverbal, messages must be adapted to meet the needs of whichever country is being courted. Brazil is no different. While there are many similarities between the U.S. and Brazil, one major difference, on the business front, is the communication style. While most U.S. business offices are very formal in terms of ideas and debate, utilizing mostly written protocol, Brazilian business professionals tend to communicate matters more orally. According to “Brazilian Communication Styles” (2010) website, the manner in which meetings are discussed can be extremely emotional and often theatrical when compared to the traditional U.S. model. Exaggerated body language and intense eye contact can illuminate any board meeting. If one were to not understand this cultural contrast, certain negative implications could arise. The top echelon of the American business world is dominated by males, this is a known fact. Therefore, most companies are not used to catering to female leaders. However, Brazil is leading the way for a new breed of CEO, the educated and motivated woman. Hewlett (2011), “In Brazil, 14% of the CEOs of large companies are female” (para. 4). For an American business attempting to negotiate terms for mergers or hiring of a woman in Brazil, they must not forget to make any necessary adjustments needed to maintain compatibility between cultures. Business culture in the U.S. is usually dictated by formalities and not exactly known for personal relationships, as witnessed by the familiar phrase, “Strictly Business.” This is not the case for the way Brazilians handle business. It is very important to establish a personal bond when doing business in Brazil. Any form of negotiation will usually be dismissed unless there is a trust between business persons; loyalty is something that must be obtained (“Never Say Never in Negotiations”, 2005). The relationships that are forged with associates tend to be more personal in Brazil, and meetings usually never start with actual business. While the U.S. is obsessed with schedules and time frames, if one does not adapt to the coziness of Brazilian business, negotiations can turn sour. There are many cultural differences that separate the nations of the world, but adaptions must be made when business matters are concerned because global trade and commerce are inescapable. And while America might be on the forefront of business, there are up and coming nations that will eventually stand on an even playing field. We have to adjust to how they do business. Subtleties like engaging in personal small talk at meetings and understanding body language or compassionate ideas are going to be key to forging business relationships. The women of the world are standing up and ready to take charge, and their lifestyles must be brought into consideration. Adapting to different business ethics and attempting to bridge the gap between cultures is vital to preventing disarray.

References
Brazilian Communication Styles. (2010). Retrieved from http://www.worldbusinessculture.com/Brazilian-Business-Communication-Style.html
Hewlett, S.A. (2011). Is a Woman in Brazil Better Off than a Woman in the U.S.?. Retrieved from http://ideas.time.com/2011/10/24/is-a-woman-in-brazil-better-off-than-a-woman-in-the-u-s/
Never say never in negotiations. (2005). Retrieved from http://edition.cnn.com/2005/TRAVEL/05/13/bt.brazil.business.tips/index.html