Business In Jamaica Essay

The tropical island of Jamaica has a mixed, free market economy. The country has state-run as well as privately-run businesses. According to executiveplanet.com, the Jamaican government has pursued “a program of economic liberalization and stabilization through the removal of exchange controls, reduction of tariffs, stabilization of local currency, and by reducing inflation and removing restrictions on foreign investment.” In short, Jamaica wants to become more involved in the world market. This offers a unique opportunity for trade agreements and business contracts to be made with Jamaican companies.

In order to conduct business with the Jamaicans, an appointment must be made. Scheduling meetings is typically easy and morning appointments are standard. However, if a meeting is scheduled after 5pm, the meeting will usually be casual. While the Jamaicans may arrive late to meetings, they expect punctuality from other parties – especially foreigners.

Greeting your Jamaican colleague is done with a firm handshake and eye-contact. Be sure to smile and use an appropriate greeting for the time of day. Men will typically pat each other on the arm during a handshake. Address people by their title (Mr., Miss, etc.) and then their family name. Never use their first name until you’ve been invited to do so.

Jamaica has a very hot climate. This makes business dress very different than in the United States. Instead of wearing a full business suit, khaki slacks and golf shirts will suffice for most meetings. However, some meetings will require a more formal dress code, so be sure to bring a suit, jacket, and tie just in case. Some items to bring are sunglasses, lighter cottons and linens, and a swimsuit if you are staying near the beach. Bus...

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...ly, Jamaicans view themselves as entrepreneurial. This means that Jamaicans are open to new ideas and are willing to take risks.

During your stay in Jamaica, expect to go out to dine with your Jamaican colleagues. While table manners in Jamaica are fairly relaxed, watch others and imitate their behaviors. Do not sit until someone indicates where you should sit, and let the host signal when to begin eating. In Jamaica, continental manners are followed, meaning, the fork is held in the left hand and the knife is held in the right. It is considered poor-etiquette to bring up business matters during a meal. While it is fine to order alcohol during dinner, it is considered strange to do so during lunch unless your colleagues order them first. Be cautious not to drink more than two alcoholic drinks, as this can ruin your reputation and may even affect the business deal.