Doing business in Botswana

Fast facts

Business hours 

8am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. 

Business language

English is the language of business, while Setswana is also widely spoken. 

Dress

A conservative dress code is common for businesspeople in Botswana. 

Gifts

Gifts are acceptable. Monetary gifts should always be avoided. 

Gender equality

In the modern economy, there is no formal division of labour by gender roles. Women make up a significant part of the workplace, but men still outnumber them. It's also rare to find women in senior positions. 

Business culture in Botswana

Business culture in Botswana is conservative and based firmly on mutual respect. Batswana (citizens of Botswana) can be reserved. So, it is best to be patient with colleagues and co-workers until they feel comfortable. Locals are friendly to foreigners, so you should have no problem settling in.

Greetings

In Batswana culture, it is common to shake hands with men and women. A local greeting phrase is also an easy way to make a good impression. It is polite to address senior men as 'Rra' and women as 'Mma'.

Communication

Colleagues and even supervisors are often addressed as Mr or Ms with their last name. Batswana can be reserved, but making small talk before getting down to business can help with this. Communication is based on a reciprocal relationship, so you should ask questions while sharing information about yourself.

Meetings

You should know that the time set for a meeting is often flexible. The same can be said for deadlines, though working overtime to finish a project on time is not uncommon. 

Attitude towards foreigners

In Botswana, foreigners are treated fairly. Batswana are impressed by education, but a person’s ability to ‘go with the flow’ will be the most influential characteristic in the working world. Employees who feel comfortable and respect their boss are more likely to talk among themselves and maintain a relaxed attitude in the workplace.

Dos and don’ts of business in Botswana

• Do be punctual
• Don’t point with the index finger, as this is a sign of disrespect
• Do make small talk and ask about a colleague's family
• Do greet colleagues politely, for example with a friendly 'hello' or 'dumela'