Business behaviors in Brazil and the USA: Understanding the gaps

The purpose of this paper is to explore the similarities and differences between selected behaviors of USA and Brazilian business people that can lead to unintended and unexpected conflicts when businesses from one country engage in business ventures in the other. Data were collected through informal interviews with business people and personal observations in both countries over several years. The Hofstede typology of Cultural Dimensions is utilized to compare and contrast the business behaviors typically found in each nation that can act as major sources of misunderstandings impeding the growth of business relations. Potential points of conflict are identified that can help members of the business communities in both nations better anticipate the issues and adapt their business practices to the requirements of successful Brazil-USA business ventures. Additional research and improved dissemination of results are needed to identify more clearly the issues and paths forward for overcoming these barriers.