Business Culture and Etiquette in El Salvador

Understanding El Salvador's business etiquette requires effective communication. When approaching Salvadorans, don't be surprised if they discuss their friends, family, and food just as much as they discuss business. However, keep in mind that Salvadorans will openly express their interests and business objectives, so your business goals, processes, and requirements must be clear and specific.

You must also maintain constant communication. Once Salvadorans have a general idea of the project they want to undertake, they will want to discuss specific dates and details. There are other effective ways to communicate with a Salvadoran. While shaking hands, use the appropriate greeting for the time of day: “Buenos días”(Good morning), “Buenas tardes” (Good afternoon), or “Buenas noches” (Good evening). El Salvador is a formal culture where only close friends and family use first names. It is important to refer to people by the appropriate honorific title (Señor or Señora) and their surname until invited to move to a first-name basis.