How Brazilian culture influences doing business in Brazil, Pt. 1
The 'Brazilian Way' is a key Brazilian character trait that influences Brazilian business culture. Discover this cultural peculiarity and learn how to succeed at doing business in Brazil.
What Is the ‘Brazilian Way’ in Brazilian Culture?
The ‘Brazilian Way’ (Portuguese: jeitinho brasileiro) is a key concept in Brazilian culture, and it impacts many aspects of daily life in Brazil. This Brazilian trait is deeply embedded in Brazilian business culture, influencing negotiation styles, workplace relationships, and decision-making. Its meaning is ambiguous; thus, the concept is an embarrassment to many Brazilians, but at the same time, it represents Brazilian character traits connected with creativity. Because the Brazilian Way manifests in negotiation flexibility, problem-solving strategies, and interpersonal workplace dynamics, for better or worse, learning about it is an important step to doing business in Brazil.
The Negative Side of the ‘Brazilian Way’ in Brazilian Business Culture
The prevalent idea about the Brazilian Way is that it sometimes refers to questionable behaviors, such as working around existing regulations to gain an advantage (i.e. all kinds of corruption). This perception is linked to incidents involving Brazilian corporations, which contribute to the mixed feelings many Brazilians have about this concept. Brazilian authorities and society as a whole acknowledge this issue, and today, there is widespread awareness and disapproval of this practice.
How Flexibility and Creativity Help in Doing Business in Brazil
The concept itself, although it has a strong negative association, can also be related to positive aspects of Brazilian culture that make doing business in Brazil easier. For example, Brazilians can be exceptionally creative and adapt to all sorts of circumstances. Centuries of economic hardships have led Brazilian people to develop an entrepreneurial sense with a good radar for opportunities. Unlike other countries, Brazilian business culture is marked by an openness to change, which has increased since the 1990s when Brazil became exposed to international influences. Additionally, the strong social bonds—like friendships and family ties—help create a business environment where trust, personal connections, and networking play a key role. Understanding these relationships can be an asset for foreign professionals navigating the Brazilian market.
Succeeding in Doing Business in Brazil
While Brazilians themselves highlight the negative connotation of this term, as well as the negative impact it may have on business in Brazil, it is vital to keep in mind the virtues of Brazilian business culture as well. Brazilians’ originality and cordial demeanor have helped take this country further economically, and there is a lot Brazilians can take pride in regarding Brazil’s economic achievements. It is important to recognize and appreciate these accomplishments.
To be successful in their business endeavors in Brazil, foreign professionals should embrace adaptability, invest in building strong relationships, and understand the importance of informal networking in Brazilian business culture. Doing business in Brazil means negotiating with smooth, suave, and charismatic people, whose level of thinking matches their character traits. Therefore, Brazilian culture provides fertile ground for business partnerships, and Brazilians will surely be welcoming and make a solid contribution to anyone interested in doing business in Brazil.
Developing an awareness of the specific traits of the Brazilian market allows foreign businesspeople to enjoy long-term success in their business projects in Brazil.
Interested in doing business in Brazil? Understanding Brazilian Portuguese and Brazilian business culture is key. Connect with experts and start navigating the market successfully!