Starting a business in Brazil requires more than just the building, employees, and compliance with local laws. You need to understand the cultural differences between doing business in the US and in Brazil. Understanding the ways that business is conducted in Brazil can help your company become truly successful.
Dressing properly is critical for business people in Brazil. While Americans can wear a shirt and tie on a hot day, Brazilians expect people who function at the executive level to wear a three-piece suit. Wearing just shirtsleeves and a tie can send the message that you are simply a manager or regular worker—this will not help you in meetings with potential clients. Well-tailored suits for both men and women are expected for executives, with very few exceptions.
The work ethic in Brazil is different than that in America. While American executives will take time away from family to build a successful career, Brazilians will make sure that they take their evenings and weekends off, and will take vacation days that are available. Do not expect to require your employees to work 16-hour days, or you may find that you will not be able to keep your employees for long.
In general, businesses in Brazil are much more formal than in the US. If you are starting a business in Brazil, expect to create a strict hierarchy for your employees and maintain formal tones. Understanding the way people conduct business in Brazil will help your company become successful in this new environment.