Behavior Tips for Visiting Colombia

Business Etiquette for Colombia

With the high altitude in Colombia it's a good idea to arrive at least one day before your appointment to adjust. In Colombia the mail service is a little less than ideal so make sure that all appointments are made weeks in advance, by phone or fax. Business hours are usually nine to five on weekdays. Store hours are normally 9:00 a.m. to about 7:00 p.m.

You may be judged by how you dress so choose conservative attire which is not dated or well-worn. Grooming is important in Colombia as it is in most countries. Pay close attention to the condition of shoes, accessories, hair and nails.

Maintain eye contact upon introductions and while conversing. Acceptable topics of conversation include Colombian history and culture, coffee, cuisine, history, literature, art or music. Avoid topics of terrorism, drug cartels, anything negative about bullfighting, criticisms about the country.

Address people by their title and surname, but if unknown, use "Senor" for men, "Senora" for a married woman and "Senorita" for an unmarried woman. The title "Doctor" or "Doctora" for women, can be used for any man or woman of high class, even if they don't hold a PhD.

If invited to a home or social engagement it's okay to arrive about 15 to 30 minutes late. Bring a gift of chocolates or flowers but never marigolds or lilies which are only for funerals. Gifts which are wrapped are only opened in private. If someone gives you a gift thank them and set it aside for opening later. Poor gift choices are jewelry and clothing, considered too personal.

Business cards and materials should be printed in English on one side, Spanish on the other. Hand your cards out to associates, Spanish side upwards. How you conduct business is only one factor in sealing the deal. Whether or not the counterparts like you and can develop a rapport with you is the main ingredient to closing the deal.