When engaging in business in Sri Lanka, it is important to be mindful of the local customs and cultural nuances. Punctuality during lunchtime and opting for local cuisine over continental dishes reflect respect for the country'
Sri Lanka's power distance dimension is 80 which is pretty high. This goes to show that Sri Lanka does not adhere to patriarchy and treats all individuals equally. This is pretty good as Sri Lanka has always been known for treating everyone well. In fact, long before, Sri Lanka was the first country that had a female prime minister. This was around the 60s when many other countries were based on patriarchal ideologies.
Sri Lanka
Three Business Dont's
If you are travelling to Sri Lanka for business, refrain or don't talk about politics as the Sri Lankan citizens have just come from a civil war that lasted 26 years and they usually tend to get sensitive about the topic as many individuals lost their lives. That is why it Is better to not talk about politics in general, only with close friends if it is really important.
It is disrespectful to take pictures of people in Sri Lanka without their permission. So if any sort of business project is being done which involves taking pictures of any sort, you need to ask for permission.
In Sri Lanka, people tend to eat with their hands. But when it comes to business, this should not be acceptable even if it is a part of Sri Lanka Culture as business
Three Business Do's
Sri Lankans take their food culture very seriously. So if you are working and it's lunchtime, always make sure your lunchtime is punctual and go for the local sri lankan cuisine instead of continental food.
Sri Lankans are usually very nice and generous people. They don't adhere to being rude or inconsiderate or swearing. Any sort of disrespect is like disrespect to the culture. Refrain from being rude
Dress according to the culture. In Sri Lanka, people don't tend to respect individuals who go out in flashy clothes to the beach or teple. Dress appropriately even if you are going for business.
Hofstede Dimensions
Whereas the individualism dimension is concerned, Sri Lanka obtained a low score of 35 thus making it a more collectivistic society. This is good as Sri Lanka's society values strong and stable relationships where everyone helps each other and lifts them up for success.