As in most Latin American countries, company formation in Argentina involves understanding the business culture. Common factors such as flexible hours and the importance of fostering close relationships before engaging in business transactions resonate across many Latin American cultures. However, the business etiquette in Argentina has its own particularities such as business card usage.
Key takeaways on business etiquette in Argentina
| How important are personal relationships for business etiquette in Argentina? | A great deal of importance is placed on building personal relationships and knowing who you are doing business with. |
| What is punctuality like in business etiquette in Argentina? | Ignore the stereotypes and make sure you do things on time to make a good impression. |
| Is remote working common in Argentina? | Remote and hybrid working are not common in Argentina but growing in popularity. Notably, many Argentines are happy to work remotely for overseas employers. |
| Do you need to speak Spanish to do business in Argentina? | Clear communication in English and Spanish will help both with business matters and with building those personal relationships. |
Argentinian Business Etiquette: 7 rules to keep in mind
Here are a few rules to keep in mind in order to execute proper business etiquette in Argentina and to ensure successful negotiations and business partnerships.
- Establish personal relationships.
- Be on time.
- Make a good first impression.
- Be prepared to negotiate.
- Communicate clearly.
- Respect personal space.
- Use business cards.
1. Establish Personal Relationships
Argentines prioritize personal relationships in business. Taking the time to build rapport through small talk and social interactions before getting down to business shows respect and builds trust. A good strategy is to understand the tastes and personality of the other person, this will help you know what topics to initiate when establishing a conversation.
2. Be on time
Although Argentina, like many other Latin American countries has a reputation for poor timing, this stereotype is outdated and largely untrue. Meetings may occasionally start a few minutes late, but being on time demonstrates professionalism and respect for others’ schedules. This will go a long way to making a good impression.
3. Make a good first impression
Greetings are an essential part of Argentina’s business culture. A firm handshake, direct eye contact and a warm smile are customary when meeting someone for the first time. It is also customary to address people by their titles and surnames until first names are authorized.
4. Be prepared to negotiate
When doing business in Argentina, keep in mind that everything is negotiable. Remember that nothing is final until the contract is signed. It is a good strategy to have already established and structured all the things you want to ensure during the negotiation, the factors that are not negotiable and those that you can be more flexible about.
5. Communicate clearly
In the Argentine business culture, clear and direct communication is appreciated. Although English is widely spoken in the business community, fluency and understanding of Spanish will go a long way to building relationships. It is essential to articulate points of view clearly and avoid ambiguity in conversations. With both languages mastered, communication and points can be clearer and a greater connection between people will be achieved.
6. Respecting Personal Space
Argentines value personal space during professional interactions. Keeping a safe distance during conversations and avoiding excessive physical contact demonstrates respect for boundaries and professionalism. While the wider culture may seem more relaxed about physical contact, this is not true in business contexts.
7. Use Business Cards
The exchange of business cards is common when doing business in Argentina. Present your card with both hands, making sure the text faces the recipient. Take a moment to examine the card you receive as a sign of respect before carefully putting it away.
What Information Should a Business Card Have?
Business cards are still an important tool for networking and making a lasting impression on potential customers or partners. However, not all business cards are the same. For your business card to represent you and your brand, it is essential that it includes specific information that conveys your professionalism and expertise.
- Your full name.
- Your position at the company.
- Your business email.
- Your phone number
- The logo of the company
FAQs on business etiquette in Argentina
These are some of the most common questions we receive from international investors interested in business etiquette in Argentina.
1. Can a foreigner own a business in Argentina?
Yes, by either legal persons (legal entities) or natural persons (individuals).
2. Why do business in Argentina?
Argentina is good for business due to its abundant natural resources, skilled workforce, and strategic location.
3. How long does it take to register a company in Argentina?
It takes between 10 to 14 weeks to form a company in Argentina and join the commercial registry after all the required information and documentation has been provided.
4. What does an S.R.L company name mean in Argentina?
Investors often choose an LLC (known as Sociedad de Responsabilidad Limitada or S.R.L.) since they can own it entirely and establish it with a minimum suggested capital of just USD$2,000. At the time of establishing the LLC, only 25% of the capital can be contributed.
5. What does an S.A. company name mean in Argentina?
The most common corporate structure in Argentina is the Sociedad Anónima (SA), which is similar to a joint-stock company. There is also a slimmed-down version known as an S.A.S.
6. What entity types offer Limited Liability in Argentina?
The S.R.L and S.A company types both offer limited liability in Argentina.
Biz Latin Hub can help you understand business etiquette in Argentina
For investors interested in starting a business in Argentina, it is important to know the essential legal steps of the company formation process.
Seeking help from a local team can avoid problems or delays in the processes of starting a business in the country and ensure that all legal and regulatory requirements of Argentina are met.
Biz Latin Hub has an experienced team that for more than 5 years has provided support to foreign investors and companies that have decided to enter the Argentine market. We offer a set of personalized market entry and back-office services providing a comprehensive approach to its expansion in Argentina.
For more information on how to create a company in Argentina or for personalized assistance, contact us today.
Learn more about our team and expert authors, and check out our short presentation below on why you should consider doing business in Argentina.
