South Africa

Business cards are commonly exchanged in South Africa, usually at the beginning of a meeting. Present your card clearly. There's no strict ritual for receiving; simply accept it politely and glance at it. Having your card in English is sufficient, as it's an official language. Including academic titles or professional qualifications is respected.

A firm handshake is the standard business greeting for both men and women. South Africans are generally warm and friendly; a brief hug might occur with established acquaintances. Maintain direct eye contact, which is a sign of sincerity. Use titles (Mr./Ms./Dr.) and surnames until invited to use first names. Be aware of varying levels of formality across different cultural groups.

South African business attire is generally smart and conservative, especially in corporate sectors in major cities. Men wear suits, shirts, and ties. Women wear smart dresses, suits, or smart separates. In some more relaxed or creative industries, smart casual may be acceptable. Always aim for a polished and professional appearance.

South African meetings are generally structured, but can begin with some small talk. Punctuality is valued, but flexibility is common, especially outside of major metropolitan areas. Discussions can be direct. Building personal rapport and trust is important for successful negotiations. Decisions may take longer than expected, requiring patience. Be prepared for a mix of Western and local communication styles.

Business meals are common for building relationships. Table manners are generally Western. Tipping is customary, around 10-15%, especially in restaurants and for good service. Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics, race, or crime during meals. Be open to trying local cuisine. South Africa is known for its excellent wines.

Appropriate topics: South African history (post-apartheid progress), culture, diversity, sports (rugby, soccer, cricket), wildlife/safaris, travel, food, wine.
Topics to avoid: Apartheid (unless you are a scholar and it's a very specific, sensitive context), crime rates, highly political topics, poverty, race relations (unless you are a local expert and it's handled with extreme sensitivity).

Yes, South Africa is a 'rainbow nation' with diverse cultural groups (Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, English, Indian, Coloured, etc.). While English is a common business language, understanding that different groups may have distinct communication styles or customs can be beneficial. Showing respect for this diversity is highly valued.

A 'braai' is a South African barbecue, a deeply ingrained social and cultural tradition. If invited to a braai, it's a significant gesture of hospitality and a chance to build strong personal connections. It's usually informal, and contributing a drink or small item (like a side dish) might be appreciated. It's often a relaxed, long affair.