The treaty of Tordesillas settled the questions of possession of the new lands between Spain and Portugal. It was agreed that territories lying East of a meridian 370 leagues West of the Cape Verde Islands should belong to Portugal, the lands to the West of Spain. This imaginary line from pole to pole, cut through […]

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THE LANGUAGE BARRIER 1. If you know a little bit of Portuguese use it. It will go a long way in cementing the business relationship. Speak it. It is a sign of respect, a demonstration that you are interested in at least trying. They really appreciate the fact that you are willing to appear less […]

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USEFUL WORDS IN BRAZIL Good morning – “Bom dia” Good afternoon – “Boa tarde” Good night – “Boa noite” What’s your name? – “Como é o seu nome?” My name is Paulo – “Meu nome é Paulo” My name is Dilce, nice to meet you. – “Meu nome é Dilce, muito prazer” Nice to meet […]

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RELATIONSHIPS 1. The most important objective for a person doing business in Brazil is to build relationships, and above all, relationships with the right people. It is frequently more important who you know than what you know. 2. Brazilians favor relationships over money. (“It is more important to have friends than money”), Brazilians are taught […]

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Business Etiquette in Brazil 1. It is extremely impolite to get right down to business. 2. Proper greetings and sufficient time spent on small talk sets up the right atmosphere. 3. The use of language is critical (The formal Senhor and the informal Voce). Getting a feel for being friendly and familiar without being pushy […]

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