Doing business in Portugal

The Portuguese economy has undergone a major transformation in recent decades. Its primarily agricultural infrastructure has given way to a modern, service-based economy, in line with the rest of the European Union. Expats will find that doing business in Portugal reflects this change, with a curious mixture of old-school conservatism and new-age innovation characterising the business world.

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Fast facts

Business language

Portuguese is the primary business language of the country, with English often being used as the 'second language of business'.

Hours of business

Hours vary but are generally from 8.30am to 1pm, and 2pm to 6pm, from Monday to Friday.

Dress

Business attire in Portugal is generally formal and conservative.

Gifts

Gifts are not generally given at business meetings and could even be seen as inappropriate. If invited to an associate's home, expats should take along some good wine, flowers or sweets.

Greetings

Shaking hands with both male and female associates.

Gender equality

Women are ostensibly treated as equals in the Portuguese business world, though it is rare to see them occupying the highest corporate positions.

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Business culture in Portugal

Though the situation is slowly changing, business culture in Portugal retains vestiges of paternalism and hierarchical 'top-down' approaches to management and leadership are common.

Business etiquette in Portugal displays an interesting mix of formality and easygoingness – with conduct being at once formal and conservative, yet also warm and relaxed. Expats should use the titles 'Senhor' and 'Senhora' until strictly instructed not to do so, and show deference to those in obvious positions of authority.

Meetings

Business meetings in Portugal must be made by appointment and should not be scheduled for times that might conflict with important family or religious holidays. Expats will be expected to be punctual, even if the hosts may not be. Since the official language of business in the country is Portuguese, it is a good idea to provide translations of all important documents or to engage the services of a translator to ensure that everyone is on the same page at business meetings.

Hierarchy

The accepted management style in Portugal is fairly directive. More often than not, subordinate employees are expected to follow instructions rather than contribute to the decision-making process.

In Portugal, the strongest business relationships are those built on the trust of individuals and as a result, nepotism has been seen as an advantageous hiring policy. Expats should be sure to allow time for personal connections to develop with Portuguese business associates, as familiarity can go a long way toward ensuring success.

Appearance

The dress code in Portugal is strictly smart and formal, with a strong importance placed on looking good. A person's status in the business world may be judged by how they present themselves. Expats are advised to choose clothing in dark colours with stylish cuts.

Attitude to foreigners

Although traces of nepotism are revealed now and then, foreigners and foreign investment are increasingly forming an integral part of the modern Portuguese economy. So long as expats treat associates with respect and warmth, they will have no problem integrating themselves into the Portuguese business world.

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Dos and don'ts of business in Portugal

• Do respect the authority of higher-ups

• Do be warm, friendly and willing to make personal connections

• Don't be impatient – let senior associates conduct meetings at their own pace

• Don't be resistant to taking instructions from superiors

• Don't be late, rude or self-aggrandising when attending business meetings