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10 Tips On Business Etiquette In Angola

10 Tips On Business Etiquette In Angola

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Angola is a former Portuguese colony, and a member state of the African Union and Latin Union so it has rich, dynamic communities and a business culture that is just as diversified as its social ones. Here are 10 tips on business etiquette in Angola.

Sources:KwIntessential.co.cuk

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counsellingpracticematters.com

Ask about the family

Angolan culture practices a lot of ancestor worship, so it is especially important here, when meeting someone, to inquire about their family before diving into business matters. Building relationships is important. Don’t be surprised if at your first meeting with someone, business is not even discussed. They just want to get to know you.

fotopedia.com
fotopedia.com

Eye contact with women

In some rural parts of Angola, women do not make eye contact with people. However, in more urban areas, and among younger generations, Angolan women might look you in the eye. If you are a woman visiting the country, you should try to avoid eye contact during the initial greeting process.

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flickr.com

More on eye contact

When speaking to someone who holds a similar position to yours or is your “equal,” making eye contact is a sign of sincerity. Meanwhile, when speaking to someone who is older than you or has more seniority, refraining from eye contact shows respect.

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Thinkstock

Greetings

Bow to anyone who is obviously older than you are, or who has seniority over you. With anyone else, a handshake is customary.

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pixabay.com

Gift giving

If you are invited to a business associate’s home in an urban area, fruit, flowers or chocolate are acceptable gifts. It’s also normal to bring small gifts for the children of your associates.

wikipedia.org
wikipedia.org

Dress

Even if your business meeting is taking place at a restaurant, café or somebody’s home, dress as you would in an office. Dressing professionally is considered a sign of respect.

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flickr.com

When addressing government officials

If there are any government officials present at your meeting, they may be addressed as “Excellency” (male) or “Excelencia” (female), without including their names.

jayce-o.blogspot.com
jayce-o.blogspot.com

Business cards

You’ll find many Angolans do not carry business cards, however they expect visitors doing business there to present them with business cards.

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flickr.com

‘Yes’ doesn’t always mean yes

As in other African cultures, agreeing with someone is a sign of respect. When Angolans aim to please they may avoid saying anything that would come off as negative, even if they do not agree with the terms you are presenting. For this reason, be sure to go over specifics rather than accept vague statements, and write up detailed contracts.

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isol-us.com

Never interrupt

Interrupting is considered rude, especially interrupting your elders. If you want to let someone know you approve of or disagree with what they’re saying, you may make hand or arm gestures while they’re speaking.