Business Etiquette

The most important thing to understand about Bolivian business etiquette is that Bolivians prefer to do business with individuals they know and trust, and they will frequently keep their business interactions inside a close-knit familial and social circle. Because social interaction is critical to the success of your company dealings, your social and dining etiquette are equally, if not more, crucial to corporate success. Simply put, businesspeople will not do business with somebody who may disgrace them on social occasions.

Bolivians are formal in social situations and even more so in business. Professional etiquette, conduct, and attire are all critical to the success of your business partnerships. Bolivians are open and pleasant people who prefer to conduct business over meals rather than in an office setting. This allows you and them to unwind, but it should not be taken for granted. Relax, have fun, and enjoy yourself since Bolivians are incredibly kind, gracious, and happy for you to leave with a positive picture of Bolivia, but remain professional and vigilant and follow your host's example.

In Bolivia, whether you act professionally or are well qualified for your job, having a university degree qualifies you as a professional. When someone says, "She is a professional," they truly mean "She is a university graduate." This implies nothing about the individual's knowledge or qualifications for a position, nor does it imply that they have acted properly.