How to do business in Jamaica.

1. By Luz Rivera

2. How To Greet Your Host Try to have a translator if you can’t speak Creole. Handshake with direct eye contact and warm smile Use appropriate salutation for the time of day Men often pat each other shoulder or arm, Woman may hug and kiss on each cheek, starting with the right Address people by Mr., Mrs., Miss Once friendship deepens, you may be asked to call the person by nickname Always wait til your invited before using someone first name

3. Business Attire Men’s wears suits, jackets and ties are expected. Only on Fridays men’s are allow to dress down. Woman’s wears suits, skirt suits, or casual business wear.

4. Traditional Attire Club Attire Beach Attire

5. Business Negotiations Avoid high-pressure sales. Relationships are viewed as more important than rules. The person with the most authority makes the decisions. Jamaicans are direct and say what they mean. They appreciative and are not impressed by too much details. Bargaining is customary and expected. Don’t give your best offer at the beginning. Do not put all your cards on the table at one time.

6. Meeting and Dining Do not sit down until you are invited to and told where to sit. Table manners are Continental -- the fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the right while eating. Meals are often served buffet-style. Do not begin eating until the host invites you to start. When not eating, it is acceptable to keep your hands in your lap. Try everything since it demonstrates graciousness. Always use utensils to eat. It is considered polite to finish everything on your plate.

7. More Info while in Jamaica Do’s Don’ts Be respectful, but firm when you need to with anyone who approaches you. Always have friends with you. When someone offers you Drugs, just say “No thanks, I’m good”. Have only dollar bills just in case you get lost. Do not wear a lot of jewelry. You don’t need to impress anyone, it might make you a rich target. Don’t flash rolls of money. Don’t wear fanny packs, it screams out tourist with something valuable. Don’t venture down alleys.

8. Resources www.google.com www.kwintessential.co.uk www.jamaicans.com

9. Thank You