Fact of the Day

4/24 - Did you know it's considered rude to write in red ink in Portugal?

See these regulations below.

It is worth paying attention to the following points at business meetings in Portugal: 

• As a general rule business behavior in Portugal is similar to that in the rest of Europe, a handshake at the beginning and end of the meeting is an accepted custom. Care should be taken to shake hands with everyone present at the meeting.
• Immediately after a handshake at the start of the meeting, it is customary to exchange business cards. Make sure that you take sufficient business cards with you.
• In addressing people, mainly people with an academic degree or members of a profession, it is customary first to address him/her by the degree or title and afterwards with the surname, An example of an address to a man, Senhor Dr. Luis.
• The accepted dress for business meetings is a business suit for both men and women.
• Most business people in Portugal have good command of English, However a few words in Portuguese will easily break the ice and create a friendly atmosphere.
• Acceptable gifts for business meetings are items for the office, quality pens (including pens with your company logo) as well as specially selected wines.
• Despite the ban on smoking in most public places you will often find areas where smoking is permitted.
• A fairly long time is needed to set up a business meeting. Take into account that you will need 3 or 4 weeks to plan a business meeting.
• Use of red ink on official documents is an unwelcome habit in Portugal.
• You are recommended to avoid business meetings in the months of July and August or around the times of national holidays.