I. Management Tips

1.   Currently, the most important business issues for managers (natives and expats) in Argentina are:

a.    Inflation
b.    International financial crisis
c.    Internal cricis (strikes, problems between agricultural producers and government)

II. Expats in Argentina

1.    What are the most important issues for expat managers in Argentina to get right?

a.    “Getting in touch” with people. Argentinian are a very warm people. Its common that people (males, from 30 to 45 age) in a work context salute other with a kiss on the cheek, once they know each other. It’s an informal way to salute others, but is very common.
b.    The “personal space” is narrow.

2.    If an expat doesn’t practice this warmth, he or she can be perceived by Argentine nationals as…

a.    Very formal,
b.    Distant
c.    Superior (the worst scenario).

III. Clients and Business Development Tips

1.    How can vendors be effective at building rapport with potential clients in Argentina?

a.    knowing the country and the culture.
b.    Hearing what customer needs instead of just offering a solution (even when this could be successful in others regions).

2.    What should vendors do when visiting a prospect or a client?

a.    In the case of foreigners, having the support of one local firm.

For additional information, please contact ITAP Argentina (Delta Management Consulting)