Brazilian Culture

Brazil

Brazil is a country full of surprises and delights but also full of corruption and mystery. (JoÐ"Јo) In fact, it is not unusual to witness prostitution in Brazil's larger cities. (Lonely Planet) When meeting a Brazilian, they seem "normal" to an American; such was the case when I met my partner, JoÐ"Јo. This paper will cover various cultural aspects of Brazil, my partner's home country.

There are many customs and courtesies one should understand to ideally communicate with a Brazilian. When greeting a Brazilian you kiss a woman once on each cheek, from left to right and you greet a male but giving him a handshake. Long handshakes are common in Brazil and good eye contact is important. (Maria-Brazil) There are a number of gestures specific to Brazilians. One is a greeting gesture, in which a person gives the "thumbs up" to signal ok or thank you. Another is "nÐ"Јo-nÐ"Јo" finger wagging, which is the most daunting if done right under the other person's nose but it is not a threat. (Lonely Planet) If a Brazilian doesn't want something they simply just slap the back of their hands. (Lonely Planet) These are just a few of the many gestures Brazilians use.

Because of the differences in communication styles between Brazil and the United States it could be difficult for an American to communicate effectively in Brazil. Brazilians like being chatty, which is a practice that puts Americans off. Brazilians don't like "getting straight to the point". Brazilians are also "touchy" people, unlike most Americans. A person should always ask the Brazilian how their family is and personal questions before getting down to business. When speaking to a Brazilian you should not address them by their first name unless given permission to do so. When on the phone with a Brazilian, do not sound like you are pressed for time. (Maria-Brazil)

When doing business with a Brazilian, it's important to be introduced or carry a letter of introduction with you (Maria-Brazil). You should make appointments two weeks in advance and never make an impromptu call on a business. (Cyborlink) Do not try to rush things and don't be aggressive because both will be offensive to a Brazilian. Be friendly with whomever you are doing business with and talk personal first and business second. Business communication is a type of social interaction in Brazil. (Maria-Brazil)

When visiting Brazil it is important to be educated about their country and their customs. It is appropriate to learn a few Portuguese phrases, since Portuguese is the official language of Brazil. Avoid wearing yellow and green together since they are the color of the Brazilian flag. A tip of 10% is common in Brazil. Be cautious to not give purple flowers (except violets), since they are frequently given at funerals. (Joni Nicol) Soccer, family and children are good conversation topics as Argentina, politics, poverty, religion and the Rain Forest are bad conversation topics. (Cyborlink)

Proper dress is very important in Brazil. If you wear casual clothes in Brazil, you would be looked down upon. Women should wear a stylish business suit or a dress with a jacket. Avoid wearing polyester and double-knits, because they are considered unfashionable. (Maria-Brazil) Wearing sandals or "city heels", for the appropriate situation, and use of a good quality tote bag that zips is proper attire for women (Maria-Brazil). Women should wear powder on the nose, lipstick, and always have their fingers manicured. Men should wear a good, clean-cut business suit or for the casual look, wear a pair of ironed jeans with a belt. Never wear socks with sandals or a tie with shorts. Men should keep their nails clean and haircut impeccable. (Maria-Brazil)

Eating habits in Brazil are different from the United States. Brazilians will have a small breakfast consisting of coffee with milk and a sweet or savory baked good. This is followed by lunch, served any where from 12-3 P.M., which is the main meal of the day. A late afternoon snack is normal. Around nine at night a light dinner is served. Brazilians don't like to eat on the go like many Americans.

The foods enjoyed by Brazilians consist of the traditional South American staples, such as rice and beans, with local flair. One dish that is common is meat cooked on a spit. Brazil has many different regional specialties, ranging from the Southern German food to the fish cooked from the Amazon.

Brazilians have many values and attitudes they consider important. Brazilians place family first and seek a strong need to help family members in any way they can. Brazil is under the "polychronics" time system, and places more emphasis on quality of time spent with their family and friends. Brazilians value friendships greatly and commonly ask favors of friends. Brazilians have strong family values and have a wide network of family relations. (Country