When doing business with another country, it is important to have an understanding of what is ethical behavior and what is not. Different countries have different expectations and the South American country of Bolivia is no exception.

Generally, a handshake is the most common form of greeting in many countries, and so it is in Bolivia. Shake hands when meeting and when leaving. Direct eye contact is also expected. Bolivians tend to be quite formal in their business dealings and you should always maintain a level of professionalism. First names are not used to address colleagues. They should be addressed by their professional or academic titles together with the surname, for example “Doctor” (for a medical doctor or someone with a Ph.D.) If a person does not have title, then use Senor or Senora with the surname.

You may address a person by his or her first name, only after they address you by yours. When this happens, and also when they introduce you to other business people using your first name, you will know that you have secured their trust. Spanish is the official language of Bolivia. Most business is conducted in Spanish, so you re at a good advantage if you have a knowledge of the language. If you do not, try to have an interpreter.

Business cards are usually exchanged during initial introductions. You should try to have one side of your card translated in Spanish, and include any academic qualifications on your card. You should also try to have documents translated into Spanish. For Bolivians, it is important to build relationships, so initial meetings are usually geared to establishing trust and learning about each other. Although meetings are generally relaxed, there is usually a sense of formality which should be adhered to.

Completing a meeting satisfactorily gains priority over time, and meetings usually continue until the discussion is completed. Try to be as diplomatic as you can in your communication style so as not to offend. Meetings are generally for discussion and to exchange ideas, but decisions are not usually reached at meetings. You need to exercise patience, and avoid trying to rush a meeting.

Your attire, business etiquette, and conduct should always be very professional in order to have successful business dealings. Bolivians prefer to do business with people whom they know and trust; as a result they usually keep their business dealings within a close-knit circle, such as family or close friends. In order for you to penetrate that barrier, your social etiquette is very important to the success of your business dealings with Bolivians.