Ecuador Business Etiquette

It is best to have at least one dark, conservative suit
Pay attention to the dress of your Ecuadorian associates, and if you find that it is more casual, you may dress to their level thereafter.
Women should avoid wearing clothes that are too tight or low cut and short skirts.

In Ecuador people often leave little room between themselves and have more physical contact than in Western countries.
Good conversation topics: family, culture, history
Bad conversation topics: politics, politics,
Greet with a handshake and exchange of business cards.

It can be a good idea to arrive a day early to get used to the change in altitude.
Make appointments about two weeks in advance
Have business cards printed in English on one side and the translation in Spanish on the other. Present the card with the Spanish side facing your Ecuadorian colleague
Be on time for business meetings. If you are kept waiting do not be offended.
Handshakes are used when both meeting and departing.

Establishing trust and mutual respect is very important
Ecuadorians negotiate with people, not companies. Never change your negotiating team.
Negotiations can be lengthy. Be patient and expect delays.
Private business people may speak English, but few government officials will. You will need to hire an interpreter.

Lunch is the customary time for the main meal and is the usual business meal. Ecuadorians are used to alcohol with lunch
If a businesswoman wishes to pay for an Ecuadorian man's meal, arrangements should be made ahead of time.
Being invited to someone's home for a visit is a sign of friendship and should be viewed as a great honor.
Ecuadorians enjoy meal times, and conversation is lively. Dinners are considered social events, and business should not be discussed.
Stay for conversation after the meal is finished. It is considered impolite to leave right away.

Fine wines and liquors.
Avoid lilies and marigolds, which are used at funerals
Business gifts are exchanged after negotiations are over.
Desk accessories or pictures and books, especially those related to your region or country.

Restaurants: mid-level to upscale restaurants will tack a 10% service charge onto your bill (along with a 12% tax).
Hotels: fifty cents per bag is plenty.
Bag boys at the grocery store - 25 cents to a dollar is fine, depending on how many groceries they tote to your car and how generous you feel in the moment.
Gas station attendants - no tipping, unless they check the air in your tires - then one dollar is good.

Content by www.MercaTrade.com

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