BUSINESS CULTURE: ARGENTINA

Argentinean business culture is driven by trust, honour and familiarity. Have a read through the facts below and learn how to act respectfully in any professional circumstance with your Argentinean counterparts.

1. Primary Contact: Argentinians value their holidays quite a lot and therefore, it is preferred that you take them into consideration when setting a meeting. These times include the months of January and February, mid-July and during December holidays. A meeting should be set approximately two weeks ahead and re-confirmed three days prior.
2. Punctuality: Comparing to other countries in vicinity, Argentina values time-management much more. However, they still tend to have some degree of flexibility. If you’re running late to a meeting, it is quite imperative that you inform your counterpart of any impediment that might have occurred.
3. Greetings: In order to show that you have respect for the Argentinean culture, it is advised that you know at least a few words in Spanish. The counterpart will most probably quickly switch to another language if they will notice any struggle. However, the effort will be greatly appreciated. Greetings should include a firm handshake with direct eye-contact and a smile.
4. Gifting: Exchanging gifts is not considered to be a necessary effort in business relationships. They are not expected, nor handed up until a very close relationship is formed.
5. Dress-code: Apart from finance and investment bank sectors, the dress-code is not necessarily extremely formal involving a suit and tie. For the initial meeting a more discreet and classic attire is advised.
6. Business Cards: When presenting your business card in Argentina, you should make sure you bring one that is translated into Spanish on one side. Business cards are usually handed at the beginning of the first meeting, without any formal ritual or introduction.
7. Business Meetings: Small-talks are very much advised at the beginning of every business meeting, in order to loosen the atmosphere. In the case in which you’re making a presentation or a pitch, it is advised you also have printed material to hand in – both in English and Spanish. Eye contact is very helpful to show sincerity and an important part of building a sense of trust.

In conclusion, Argentina’s business culture is quite relationship-driven, involving keeping a close contact with their business collaborators. Make sure you spend enough time networking and cultivating friendships. Once these relationships are being developed, your Argentinean counterparts are most likely to remain loyal to your agreements. Keep them close!