| Meeting
times
Theoretically, businesses start their day at 9:00 am, but generally
appointments start at 10:00 am. Meetings usually last from 30
minutes to an hour, unless specified in exceptional cases.
Attire
Business meetings are generally conducted in formal attire,
unless they take place in recreational areas or outside of the
city. Formal attire is a two-piece suit and a tie. The tuxedo
and black tie are used only for diplomatic or very formal events,
while dark suits are recommended for evening engagements and
funerals. Customary
conduct
It is unusual to conclude business propositions and negotiations
in the first meeting. Each party takes its time when it comes
to solving business issues, and this may take longer than expected.
To leave things pending is part of the business strategy here
and applying pressure for prompt resolutions may not be well
received. Chilean
Businessmen and women
Chilean businessmen and women are serious, honest and hard
working, but their culture is a very indirect one when it comes
to stating a lack of interest, or simply saying no. The usual
way of saying this is to "call you later" or by repeatedly
deferring appointments.
The phrase "al tiro" meaning "right away"
should not always be taken literally.
Bribery is not customary in Chile, as it may be in other places
of Latin America. For a police officer it is a severe offence.
Never attempt to bribe in Chile. |
