Business Etiquette:
Jamaica

By: Rameeka W.

1. Communication + Greetings.
-Although they like getting to the point, they dislike aggressiveness.

-Don't appear as overly friendly or too kind

-Business is hierarchical, the person with the most authority makes most of the decisions so don't try and interfere.

2. Dining.
-Don't sit at the dinner table unless you are instructed to by somebody

-Don't start eating until the host does.

-Don't put elbows on tables, or sit in an unusual way. It is important to have your hands in your lap when you aren't eating.

3. Negotiating.
-Bargaining is pretty common in Jamaica so it is important to keep your best offers till the end, after the negotiations

1. Clothing.
-The way one dresses themselves is important for business meetings in Jamaica.

-Casual business attire can consist of khaki slacks and golf shirts due to the hot weather conditions.

-Formal business attire must consists of a suit, jacket and tie, while women wear dresses.

2. Communication + Greetings
-Respect and polite mannerisms are needed during business contact. Relationships may sometimes be valued over rules.

-shake the persons hand while maintaining direct eye contact.

-When first meeting a person you are doing business with, they might seem cold and reserve, however they usually start to get more comfortable as they get to know you.

-Jamaicans expect foreigners to be punctual however they could be a little late themselves. Business cards are usually expected.

-It is common for Jamaicans to stand close with each other during conversating, and patting backs when greeting

-Jamaicans appreciate when you are direct and to the point with them as they usually are.

3. Dining.
-It is important to watch what other people are doing at the table and try to follow as so.

-Using continental table manners is important, which consist of holding the fork in your left hand and the knife in your right.

-It is a sign of respect to finish all the food on your plate.