Corporate Etiquette in Brazil

Understanding the nuances can not only help foreigners better adapt to the Brazilian job market, but also offer valuable insights into how cultural practices influence workplace dynamics and interpersonal relationships.

Corporate etiquette in Brazil is a reflection of the country's culture and principles, valuing personal relationships, flexibility and a more humanized approach in the work environment. Understanding these nuances can not only help foreigners better adapt to the Brazilian job market, but also offer valuable insights into how cultural practices influence workplace dynamics and interpersonal relationships. This comprehensive understanding underscores the importance of cultural sensitivity and adaptability to foster successful professional interactions and build lasting connections in Brazil's vibrant and culturally diverse corporate landscape.

Understanding the Nuances of the Brazilian Work Environment

• Corporate etiquette in Brazil reflects the country's rich cultural tapestry, offering a unique and vibrant setting that can differ significantly from other cultures around the world. By delving into Brazilian work practices, foreigners can find valuable lessons on how to navigate this environment respectfully and effectively. This article highlights the main characteristics, attitudes and habits common in the Brazilian workplace, contrasting them with practices in other countries to provide a comprehensive overview of corporate etiquette in Brazil.

Communication: Warmth and Cordiality

• One of the hallmarks of the Brazilian workplace is its warm and welcoming nature. Brazilians tend to value personal relationships and cordial interactions, which is reflected in direct and expressive communication. If you are visiting Brazil for work, I suggest you give preference to shaking hands. It is better to err on the side of too much respect than too little. Greeting with a handshake is the most traditional in the Brazilian work environment and at work events, but it is common to see hugs and even kisses on the cheek in more informal contexts or between colleagues who share a closer relationship. Even among older customers and employees, there can be greetings with a kiss on the cheek, as long as this initiative comes from the customer. 

Hierarchy and Flexibility

• Although hierarchy is respected in Brazil, there is a relatively flexible approach to organizational structure. Superiors are accessible and are often directly involved in team activities, promoting an inclusive and less formal work environment. 

Meetings: The Value of Personal Contact

• Meetings in Brazil often begin with informal, non-work-related conversations as a way to establish connection and comfort among participants. The formal start of meetings may be postponed in favor of this social interaction, reflecting the importance given to establishing relationships before discussing business. During face-to-face meetings in Brazil, it is very common to consume water and coffee.

Dress: Between Formal and Casual

• The dress code in Brazilian companies varies significantly according to the industry and location, but tends to be a mix between formal and casual. In cities with warmer climates, such as Rio de Janeiro, a more relaxed approach is common, allowing for greater personal expression. In sectors linked to Law and finance, the dress code is usually quite formal, with men wearing suits and ties.

Lunchtime: More Than Just a Break

• Lunch break in Brazil is an important social time, often seen as an opportunity to strengthen bonds and relax with co-workers. Unlike cultures that prioritize quick lunches or meals at the workplace, Brazilians value this time as a significant break in their daily journey, but this is not a rule. There are many companies where people eat lunch at work, especially when the meal is already provided free of charge to employees. I worked in an industry where this happened. We were allowed to go out for lunch, but since it was more practical to eat at the company’s restaurant and it had no expenses, I ate there most days. 

In Brazil there is no custom of taking a siesta, as happens in some countries like Italy, for example. In Brazil, even those who go to have lunch at home have a short lunch break (normally one hour) and then return to work immediately. We don’t have the custom or time released by companies to sleep after lunch.

I have put together some practical guidance on attitudes during work meetings that are generally considered inappropriate and can negatively affect other people's perceptions:

• Lack of punctuality: Although Brazil is known for a more flexible culture regarding time, arriving late to work meetings, especially without prior notice, can be seen as a lack of professionalism and disrespect.

• Using your cell phone inappropriately: Constantly checking your cell phone, sending messages or answering calls during meetings can be interpreted as a lack of interest or respect for colleagues and the topic discussed.

• Interrupting others: Talking over colleagues or interrupting while someone else is speaking is considered rude. It's important to wait your turn and listen actively.

• Going off topic: Dwelling on topics that are not on the meeting agenda can waste everyone's time. Maintaining focus is crucial to meeting efficiency.

• Being negative all the time: While constructive criticism is welcome, a consistently negative or critical stance can be frowned upon. It's important to balance negative feedback with positive suggestions.

• Failing to Prepare: Arriving at a meeting unprepared, without having reviewed the necessary materials or without having ideas to contribute can create an impression of disinterest or lack of professionalism.

• Not participating: Remaining completely silent, without participating in discussions, can be interpreted as a lack of preparation or interest in the meeting.

• Eating during the meeting: Unless it is a work lunch or there is general consent, eating during meetings can be seen as disrespectful or distracting to participants.

Remembering that business culture can vary significantly, depending on the company and sector, these are general guidelines that help promote a respectful and productive meeting environment in the Brazilian context.

Contributor, Gabriela Vassimon has been working as an etiquette consultant for over a decade. As Civility Expert’s Brazilian exclusive affiliate, Gabriela majored in Psychology, and has over 10 years of experience working with children, teenagers and adults in different sectors (clinic, school, orphanage, companies). Gabriela wears several hats as a psychologist, etiquette consultant and entrepreneur. Gabriela holds an MBA in people management and launched Escola de Gentileza – civilidade e etiqueta (School of Kindness – civility and etiquette). The school offers training and classes in grooming, decorum, social graces, etiquette, and civility for all ages. If you need to learn more about Workplace Etiquette in Brazil, whether you are a foreigner or Brazilian, know that we offer Corporate Etiquette courses both for companies or teams and for professionals looking for individual courses.

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