Travelling To Faro? Know The Portuguese Business Etiquette

The Portuguese coastline is a favourite amongst sunshine-seeking tourists, but it is also home to bustling commercial activity. If you’re fortunate enough to be travelling to Faro for work, it’s worth brushing up on your knowledge of Portuguese business etiquette, so that you’re well-equipped to put your best foot forward during your trip.

Essential Things You Should Know

Companies in Portugal tend to thrive on hierarchy, with the topmost official usually being the most powerful. A typical manager will be averse to triggering any conflict with the staff members working under him or her and instead will choose to communicate any information in a formal announcement. The workplace is generally treated as a ‘formal’ setup, with employees making the effort to look smart and dress elegantly. It’s important to use titles when addressing officials, especially those who are of a higher rank than you. If you’re unsure about it, it’s ideal to address them as Senhor (Mr) or Senhora (Ms), followed by their surname.

Master Business Meetings

While you should strive to be thoroughly punctual for all your meetings, be patient if your Portuguese business partner is around 15-30 minutes late. Be prepared to have several meetings before you can reach a suitable decision about the matter being discussed. While most professionals in Portugal speak fluent English, it’s more courteous to ask and confirm if the person you’re speaking to is comfortable to communicate in English, or you’ll have to make alternate arrangements. If you have any appointments scheduled on the day of your arrival, it’s recommended to allow for a couple of hours’ buffer after your scheduled arrival at the airport. Faro taxi services are reliable but in case of sudden roadworks or an unexpected flight delay, it’s advisable to plan your timetable accordingly.

Relationships

Even in a professional context, the Portuguese highly value positive relationships. If your business partner suggests discussing a venture over a meal, you should embrace this approach of building professional rapport in more social setting. Often, big deals are assigned to professionals who can be trusted on a personal level too, which means you may have to prove your integrity in everyday life instead of only within the board meeting room.

How to Get There

There are several flights serving the UK to Faro route, so you have plenty of convenient options from which to choose. If you’re looking for the best way to get to your hotel from the airport, Faro taxidrivers can get you there in no time. The best way to ensure a smooth trip with no waiting around is to pre-book online before, so you can have peace of mind.

Since the temperatures in Portugal can be pleasantly warm during most times of the year, ensure you stay hydrated after landing at the airport. Faro taxi rides to your accommodation can help you enjoy the sunshine without having to make your way around the public transport system in the heat. You also won’t have to waste time worrying about transportation – you can focus on crushing your business meeting instead.

Remember that the most important aspect during your work trip is to show respect to your Portuguese counterparts and they will acknowledge and appreciate your efforts to embrace the local culture. Good luck!

Author Plate

Lukas Johannes is a driver for Shuttle Direct, the number one provider of shared and private airport transfers in various countries across the globe. If you’re looking for an affordable way to get from the airport, Faro taxi drivers with Shuttle Direct can make sure that you get to where you need to go swiftly and safely.